The Chicago Bears face a critical 2026 NFL Draft, needing to address roster gaps after a successful 2025 season. General manager Ryan Poles must draft wisely to enhance the defense while avoiding risky decisions.
Key points
Chicago Bears have an important 2026 NFL Draft ahead.
General manager Ryan Poles needs to draft wisely.
The Bears must fill gaps left by departing defensive veterans.
The offense is in a good place despite the DJ Moore trade.
Mentioned in this story
Ryan PolesBen JohnsonDJ Moore
Chicago BearsBuffalo Bills
What the Chicago Bears shouldn't do in the 2026 NFL Draft
The Chicago Bears have an incredibly important weekend ahead of them, looking to fill out their roster during the 2026 NFL Draft. Needing to have an impressive offseason after a highly success 2025 season in the first year under head coach Ben Johnson, the Bears need to fill in several gaps on the roster created by several defensive veterans departing in free agency.
The work is not over yet as general manager Ryan Poles will have to continue his big splashes by drafting wisely and not taking many chances. This offseason there have been several big name defensive players on the trade block, yet Chicago has not made any blockbuster trades, showing a bit of a sign that they are investing into this year's draft.
We're examining three things the Bears should steer clear of during this draft at a time where it feels crucial that they nail the draft. The franchise has shown a real commitment to Johnson, but that work needs to continue by upgrading the defense, as the offense seems to be in a good place, even after the trade that sent DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills. The work is not done until the draft is complete.
Unknown date & location, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) carries the ball during the 1987 season. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Q&A
What should the Chicago Bears avoid in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Bears should steer clear of making risky picks and should focus on filling defensive gaps.
Who is the Bears' general manager for the 2026 NFL Draft?
Ryan Poles is the general manager responsible for the Bears' decisions during the 2026 NFL Draft.
What position does the Chicago Bears need to upgrade in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Bears need to upgrade their defense, particularly after losing several veterans in free agency.
How did the Chicago Bears perform in the 2025 NFL season?
The Bears had a highly successful 2025 season, which sets high expectations for their performance in the 2026 NFL Draft.
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Oct 29, 1972; St. Louis, MO, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Dick Butkus (51) in action against the Chicago Bears at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Herb Weitman-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 24, 1985; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears lineman Dan Hampton defensive end Dan Hampton (99) in action against the Atlanta Falcons at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 28, 1969; St. Louis, MO, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears running back Gayle Sayers (40) in action against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Bears 20-17. Mandatory Credit: Herb Weitman-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2010; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher (54) takes the field against the New York Jets at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears celebrates after defeating the Carolina Panthers at Soldier Field in October.
Unknown date; Los Angeles, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears tight end Mike Ditka (89) on the bench agains the Los Angeles Rams at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darryl Norenberg-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears quarterback Jim McMahon (9) throws the ball against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XX at the Superdome. The Bears defeated the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2019; Landover, MD, USA; Chicago Bears guard Kyle Long (75) stands on the field during the first half against the Washington Redskins at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 2, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the fourth quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
Oct 30, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Roquan Smith (58) in action during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
26 Jan 1986: Quarterback Steve Fuller #4 of the New England Patriots prepares to pass as teammate offensive lineman Jim Covert #74 covers during Super Bowl XX game with the Chicago Bears at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Bear
Nov 11, 2007; Oakland, CA, USA; Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson (32) runs the ball during the second quarter against the Oakland Raiders at McAfee Coliseum in Oakland, CA. Mandatory Credit: Phil Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 8, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (15) catches a touchdown during the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images
Jan 7, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Bears offensive tackle Darnell Wright (58) during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2010; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris (91) takes the field against the New York Jets at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 2008; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman (8) throws a pass during the fourth quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Soldier Field. The Titans beat the Bears 21-14. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 16, 2011; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Greg Olsen (82) after the 2011 NFC divisional playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Oct. 27, 1985; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Wilber Marshall (58) in action against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field. The Bears beat the Vikings 27-9. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 1986; Tampa, FL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears receiver Willie Gault (83) in action against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tampa Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears defensive tackle William Perry (72) interacts with Ron Rivera (59) on the field against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XX at the Superdome. The Bears defeated the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Otis Wilson (55) warms up prior to Super Bowl XX against the New England Patriots at the Superdome. The Bears would defeat the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 1993; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears quarterback Jim Harbaugh (4) in action against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Peter Brouillet-USA TODAY NETWORK
Oct 25, 1987; Tampa, FL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears full back Neal Anderson (35) takes a hand off from Jim McMahon (9) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tampa Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY NETWORK
Aug 19, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Kevin White (11) looks on prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 15, 2019; Denver, CO, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Leonard Floyd (94) reacts to a call in the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2020; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (10) throws a pass against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the second quarter at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
04 Aug 2001: Cade McNown #8 of the Chicago Bears looks for the open man during the NFL pre-season game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL. The Bears defeated the Bengals 16-13 in overtime. DIGITAL IMAGE Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Daniel/ALLSPORT
Sep 13, 2020; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) puts his hands up after a play during the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Unknown date & location, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) carries the ball during the 1987 season. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Unknown date & location, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) carries the ball during the 1987 season. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Oct 29, 1972; St. Louis, MO, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Dick Butkus (51) in action against the Chicago Bears at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Herb Weitman-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Nov 24, 1985; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears lineman Dan Hampton defensive end Dan Hampton (99) in action against the Atlanta Falcons at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
4 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Sep 28, 1969; St. Louis, MO, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears running back Gayle Sayers (40) in action against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Bears 20-17. Mandatory Credit: Herb Weitman-USA TODAY Sports
5 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Dec 26, 2010; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher (54) takes the field against the New York Jets at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
6 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears celebrates after defeating the Carolina Panthers at Soldier Field in October.
7 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Unknown date; Los Angeles, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears tight end Mike Ditka (89) on the bench agains the Los Angeles Rams at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darryl Norenberg-USA TODAY Sports
8 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears quarterback Jim McMahon (9) throws the ball against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XX at the Superdome. The Bears defeated the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
9 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Sep 23, 2019; Landover, MD, USA; Chicago Bears guard Kyle Long (75) stands on the field during the first half against the Washington Redskins at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
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Best Chicago Bears draft pick from every year since 2016
Nov 2, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the fourth quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
11 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Oct 30, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Roquan Smith (58) in action during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
12 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
26 Jan 1986: Quarterback Steve Fuller #4 of the New England Patriots prepares to pass as teammate offensive lineman Jim Covert #74 covers during Super Bowl XX game with the Chicago Bears at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Bear
13 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Nov 11, 2007; Oakland, CA, USA; Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson (32) runs the ball during the second quarter against the Oakland Raiders at McAfee Coliseum in Oakland, CA. Mandatory Credit: Phil Carter-USA TODAY Sports
14 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Dec 8, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze (15) catches a touchdown during the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images
15 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Jan 7, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Bears offensive tackle Darnell Wright (58) during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
16 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Dec 26, 2010; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris (91) takes the field against the New York Jets at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
17 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Nov 9, 2008; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman (8) throws a pass during the fourth quarter against the Tennessee Titans at Soldier Field. The Titans beat the Bears 21-14. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
18 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Jan 16, 2011; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Greg Olsen (82) after the 2011 NFC divisional playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
19 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Oct. 27, 1985; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Wilber Marshall (58) in action against the Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field. The Bears beat the Vikings 27-9. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Nov 9, 1986; Tampa, FL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears receiver Willie Gault (83) in action against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tampa Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
21 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears defensive tackle William Perry (72) interacts with Ron Rivera (59) on the field against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XX at the Superdome. The Bears defeated the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
22 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Jan 26, 1986; New Orleans, LA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears linebacker Otis Wilson (55) warms up prior to Super Bowl XX against the New England Patriots at the Superdome. The Bears would defeat the Patriots 46-10. Mandatory Credit: Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Sep 26, 1993; Chicago, IL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears quarterback Jim Harbaugh (4) in action against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Peter Brouillet-USA TODAY NETWORK
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Oct 25, 1987; Tampa, FL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bears full back Neal Anderson (35) takes a hand off from Jim McMahon (9) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tampa Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY NETWORK
25 / 30
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Aug 19, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Kevin White (11) looks on prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Sep 15, 2019; Denver, CO, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker Leonard Floyd (94) reacts to a call in the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Dec 27, 2020; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (10) throws a pass against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the second quarter at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
04 Aug 2001: Cade McNown #8 of the Chicago Bears looks for the open man during the NFL pre-season game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL. The Bears defeated the Bengals 16-13 in overtime. DIGITAL IMAGE Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Daniel/ALLSPORT
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A look at Chicago Bears first round draft picks through the years
Sep 13, 2020; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) puts his hands up after a play during the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Here's what the Bears can't afford to do as the NFL draft kicks off:
Don't fall in love with offensive players
Both head coach Ben Johnson and general manager Ryan Poles have been very transparent in wanting to take the best player available, regardless of position or what side of the football. With so many moving parts and expected trades in this year's draft, the Bears can not allow themselves to follow the strategy of best player available, if it comes down to offense over defense. The glaring holes on the roster are on the defensive side, and the only way offense should be an early focus is on finding a long-term option at left tackle.
Don't be afraid to let the board fall
Each year, there are teams that change the trajectory of the first round, whether it's a surprise pick or a trade up that completely shifts the board. Given the coaching staff Chicago has in place, they have shown that they can get the most out of the players on the roster, such as last year's seventh-round pick Kyle Monangai, who became a major contributor in the rushing attack. Players like Rueben Bain Jr., who may see their draft stock fall due to off the field headlines, could end up moving the board for several teams, allowing the Bears an opportunity to strike with a player who they may not have expected to be on the board with their selection. That doesn't necessarily mean a player of Bain's caliber would fall to them, but if he falls, other players will fall down the board with him, giving Chicago a great opportunity.
Don't reach for projects
With the Bears having several areas of need, they can not reach for potential or possibilities of finding a diamond in the rough. After the comments by Johnson and Poles about looking at the best player available, they need to focus on prospects who have credible and established resumes, and not try to be the smartest front office in the league by reaching on players who could be a couple of years away. Chicago has proved they have a roster that can compete right now, potentially even take the next step after their divisional playoff exit last season. But in order to do that, they're going to have to recognize their window is now and they can't be in a "wait and see" approach to the draft.
