Ryan Poles and the Chicago Bears have taken a distinct approach this year. They focused heavily on defensive stability and replenishing the offensive line. Since Chicago was picking much later in the draft than in previous seasons, the strategy shifted significantly.
Chicago Bears 2026 Draft Grades: Invasion of the Bears’ Den
First Round (25th Overall): Dillon Theineman, Safety
Safety Dillon Theineman was widely considered the steal of the first round. Most NFL scouts had him as a top-15 talent and the best safety in the class. He has elite instincts and ball-hawking ability.
Theineman can be used in a variety of ways. He can play nickel, single-high, or in the box. This addresses a massive hole after the loss of several veteran defensive backs in free agency. He is expected to start by the beginning of the regular season.
Chicago Bears 2026 Draft Grade: A
Second Round (57th overall): Logan Jones, Center
A polarizing pick, center Logan Jones is an athletic player from the Iowa offensive line factory. But many scouts and journalists felt that this move was a reach. They also projected him as a third or fourth-round developmental piece.
He is a high-effort blocker with great leverage. He was a defensive tackle convert, so he is still refined in pass protection. It is definitely going to add depth due to the sudden retirement of Pro Bowl center Drew Dalman. Protecting quarterback Caleb Williams is a must.
Chicago Bears 2026 Draft Grade: C-
Third Round (89th overall): Sam Roush, Tight End
Tight end Sam Roush is a prototypical ‘Y’ tight end. He isn’t the flashy receiver that Colston Loveland is. But he is a physical blocker who can leak out for short-yardage catches. Roush has strong hands and protects against linebackers well.
Ryan Poles highlighted the team’s high usage of two-to three-tight end sets. By getting Roush, he gets a physical presence to complement Cole Kmet.
Chicago Bears 2026 Draft Grade: B-
Third Round (95th overall): Zavion Thomas, Wide Receiver
Wideout Zavion Thomas is a dynamic playmaker with elite speed. He was a productive part of the LSU pipeline. He is dangerous in the open field and a high-end return specialist. The addition of Thomas adds an explosive threat and depth behind Luther Burden III and Rome Odunze.
Thomas will also add insurance and a weapon in the return game, which is a historical position for the Bears.
Chicago Bears 2026 Draft Grade: B
Fourth Round (124th overall): Malik Muhammad, Cornerback
Next, the Bears traded up five spots to secure cornerback Malik Muhammad. He is a high-upside corner who ran a 4.42 at the NFL Combine. He is extremely versatile and has great length. The cornerback noted that after the draft, he can play outside or slide into the nickel.
Muhammad will be working directly with Al Harris, which is a perfect developmental situation. Muhammad will provide immediate high-end depth behind Jaylon Johnson and Tyrique Stevenson.
Chicago Bears 2026 Draft Grade: A-
Fifth Round (166th overall): Keyshaun Elliott, Linebacker
Linebacker Keyshaun Elliott is a downhill, physical tackler who was a second-team All-Big 12 selection. He is an elite run-stuffer and is an effective blitzer. He struggles a bit in deep coverage, but this ‘thumper mentality’ is exactly what the Bears like for their middle-field rotation.
Elliott is expected to fit on the special field unit immediately by training camp. He projects as a replacement for some of the veteran depth in the linebacker room.
Chicago Bears 2026 Draft Grade: B+
Sixth Round (213th overall): Jordan van den Berg, DL
Finally, the last pick the Bears picked was a defensive lineman. Pass rusher Jordan van den Berg is a high-motor interior lineman who was first-team All-ACC in 2025. He has a unique background, having grown up playing rugby in South Africa.
The former lineman from Georgia Tech recorded 11 tackles for loss last season. He has a reputation for ‘winning with leverage’. His grandfather was actually a Mr. Universe competitor, and that raw strength shows up on tape.
He has the depth for the 3-technique spot. He’s a developmental piece who will compete with Gervon Dexter Sr. for rotational snaps.
Chicago Bears 2026 Draft Grade: B
Reflection on the Chicago Bears’ Draft Picks
In conclusion, the overall theme for the Chicago Bears was athleticism and versatility. These were two things that were lacking in 2025. Every defensive player selected has the speed to play multiple spots. The offensive picks were clearly made to fortify the muscle of the offense for Caleb Williams.
