The 2026 NFL Draft is almost upon us. In just over two weeks, the all of these prospects will find new homes in the NFL. The Chicago Bears have new life after HC Ben Johnson won a playoff game in his first season at the helm, and now Chicago will look to take the next step.
We’re in the heart of mock draft season, and those are good exercises to mimic how teams might approach the draft if the board falls in various ways. I’ve been scouting this class since last summer and it’s almost surreal to think they’ll be NFL players in just a few short weeks.
I’ll be conducting a three-round Bears-specific mock draft. This will be a predictive exercise using PFF’s simulator to project who will be available at each pick. Thanks to their recent trade with the Bills, the Bears have four top-100 picks to work with, including two second-round picks.
Round 1, Pick 25: The Chicago Bears Select Georgia DT Christen Miller
GettyATHENS, GEORGIA – SEPTEMBER 9: Christen Miller #52 of the Georgia Bulldogs reacts during the third quarter against the Ball State Cardinals at Sanford Stadium on September 9, 2023 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
Stopping the run was a big problem for the Bears last season. Teams were able to run the ball on them far too easily, but Miller would help solve that problem. A massive presence in the middle of the defensive line, he changes the math on run defense by himself. Not only that, but offers some nice upside as a pass rusher, with some surprising shiftiness and flexibility at his size.
The Bears could also look to the edge and take Clemson ED T.J. Parker, Central Florida ED Malachi Lawrence, or Missouri ED Zion Young in this spot. They could also take Ohio State DT Kayden McDonald instead of Miller, but not only is Miller the best value in this spot, I think he’s the best fit.
Round 2, Pick 57: The Chicago Bears Select Tennessee ED Joshua Josephs
GettyKNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE – AUGUST 31: Joshua Josephs #19 of the Tennessee Volunteers celebrates after a recovered fumble in the first quarter during their game against the Chattanooga Mocs at Neyland Stadium on August 31, 2024 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
With Miller anchoring the middle of the defense, Josephs would be a phenomenal player to slide in next to him. One of the most dynamic pass rushers in this entire class, he gets after the quarterback like no other, with a freakish first step and bend around the edge. Josephs would improve Chicago’s run defense, as well, despite his reputation as a pure pass rusher.
There are other directions the Bears could go in with this pick, but between Miller and Josephs, they would get a massive boost to their defensive line.
Round 2, Pick 60: The Bears Select Cincinnati LB Jake Golday
A truly remarkable prospect, Golday’s versatility in run defense and coverage would be a big boon the Chicago defense. He’s a staunch run defender, flying around the field to make big plays in the backfield. Additionally, his coverage utility is impressive, with Cincinnati using him as an overhang slot defender at times. That’s rare range for a linebacker.
Round 3, Pick 89: The Bears Select Kansas State C Sam Hecht
With the surprise retirement of Drew Dalman, the Bears need to address center at some point in the draft. The value lies in Round 3, with a bunch of starting-caliber center available in that range. Hecht was a Senior Bowl standout and a two-year starter at Kansas State. He’s strong in both phases of the offense and offers a lot of experience. He can play right away or sit for a year before stepping into his role.
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