Chicago Bears' 2026 NFL Draft Picks and Needs

Picks: Nos. 25, 57, 60, 89, 129, 239, 241

Top Needs: Edge, DT, DB

"Defense, defense, defense."

This should be general manager Ryan Poles' mantra whenever the Chicago Bears are on the clock this weekend.

Chicago won the NFC North last season but ranked a dismal 29th in total defense. Even after a month-plus of roster shuffling, the Bears still have major needs on that side of the ball.

They still require a high-end edge-rusher to pair with Montez Sweat. Dayo Odeyingbo was supposed to be that guy, but he logged only a single sack in eight games before suffering a torn Achilles.

Chicago could also use a run-stopper on the interior after ranking 29th in yards per carry allowed last season.

The Bears allowed both of last year's starting safeties to walk in free agency, and even after adding Coby Bryant, they could use a starter there. A little cornerback depth couldn't hurt, either.

Clemson edge-rusher T.J. Parker, Auburn defensive lineman Keldric Faulk, Texas Tech defensive tackle Lee Hunter, Indiana corner D'Angelo Ponds, and Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman should all earn some consideration with the 25th pick.

Chicago will have six more selections after Round 1 with which to address its remaining defensive needs.