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NFL world reacts to Bears picking TE Sam Roush in 2026 NFL Draft
TL;DR
The Chicago Bears surprised fans by selecting tight end Sam Roush from Stanford with the 69th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. This choice raised eyebrows given the team's existing tight end depth and other pressing needs on the offensive and defensive lines.
Key points
- Bears selected Sam Roush with the 69th overall pick
- Trade with Titans allowed Bears to gain additional picks
- Selection raised questions about tight end depth
- Roush compared to Cole Kmet in pre-draft analysis
Sam RoushCole KmetColston LovelandChicago Bears
The Chicago Bears made their first true surprise pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting Stanford tight end Sam Roush with the 69th overall selection. The Bears had made their first trade of the draft in the second round, moving back from pick No. 60 in a trade with the Tennessee Titans and receiving pick No. 69 and 144 in exchange. Giving themselves two third round picks, and adding a fifth round selection in the process. Making the trade signified that the Bears felt they could still find value at the top of their board by moving back, but the issue became who they spent the draft pick on, a position not in need, tight end. Chicago spent their 69th pick on a tight end, who actually had drawn comparisons to Bears veteran Cole Kmet in his pre-draft analysis projection. After selecting Colston Loveland with their first round pick last season, and still having Kmet on the roster, the selection of Roush is quite confusing. Especially considering the Bears still need to address the offensive and defensive lines.
NFL world reacts to Bears selecting TE Sam Roush in NFL draft
If you didn't think Ben Johnson was calling the shots before there is absolutely no question now
— Dave (@davebftv) April 25, 2026 If Sam Roush could rush the passer like his great uncle Merlin Olsen, we'd all understand that pick better, right?
— Dan Pompei (@danpompei) April 25, 2026 Someone explain the Sam Roush pick to me #InBenWeTrust
— Bears Blog Boy (@TommyK\_NFLDraft) April 25, 2026 I DID NOT see Sam Roush coming...
I actually really like Roush but I'm pretty surprised they are going TE early 3rd round.
— Harrison Graham (@HGrahamNFL) April 25, 2026 I find selection of Stanford TE Sam Roush baffling, given needs on D-line and presence of Colston Loveland and Cole Kmet. Roush replaces Graham Smythe on depth chart and is solid blocker with excellent pass-catching ability. But seems like could’ve been addressed later.
Q&A
Why did the Chicago Bears draft Sam Roush in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Bears selected Sam Roush to add depth at tight end, despite having existing players like Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland on the roster.
What was the reaction to the Bears selecting Sam Roush?
Reactions were mixed, with many fans and analysts expressing confusion over the pick, citing the team's greater needs on the offensive and defensive lines.
How does Sam Roush compare to other tight ends on the Bears roster?
Sam Roush is noted for his blocking ability and athleticism, drawing comparisons to Cole Kmet, but his selection raised questions about his role with Kmet and Loveland already in place.
What trade did the Bears make before selecting Sam Roush?
Before selecting Roush, the Bears traded back from the 60th pick to acquire the 69th and 144th picks from the Tennessee Titans.
