Chicago Bears Updated 2026 NFL Draft Needs After First Wave of Free Agency

The Chicago Bears entered the 2026 offseason with several major roster questions. After the first wave of free agency, some of those holes have been addressed. But others remain firmly on the team's radar as it shifts its focus toward the 2026 NFL Draft.

Chicago added several key defensive pieces in free agency, including linebacker Devin Bush, safety Coby Bryant, and defensive tackle Neville Gallimore. The Bears also added special teams help by signing return specialist Kalif Raymond.

Even with those additions, the roster still has areas that could be addressed when the draft arrives in April.

Here are the top draft needs for Chicago following the first wave of free agency.

Edge Rusher

Pass rush remains one of the most obvious areas the Bears could target early in the draft.

While Chicago has added depth to the defense this offseason, it still lacks a proven high-end edge presence capable of consistently generating pressure. Adding a young pass rusher with explosive traits could immediately elevate the front seven and give defensive coordinator Dennis Allen another disruptive piece.

Edge rusher remains one of the most premium positions in the draft, making it a logical target if the right player falls to Chicago in the first two rounds.

Offensive Tackle

Protecting franchise quarterback Caleb Williams will remain a priority moving forward, especially after Drew Dalman's retirement and Ozzy Trapilo's injury.

The Bears brought back offensive tackle Braxton Jones on a one-year deal, but the long-term outlook at tackle could still push Chicago toward investing a draft pick at the position.

Many teams prefer developing tackles through the draft, and Chicago could look to add a young lineman who can either compete for a starting role immediately or develop into a future cornerstone.

Interior Defensive Line

Although Gallimore strengthens the defensive tackle rotation, the Bears could still add more depth and pass-rush ability inside.

Interior pressure has become increasingly valuable in today’s NFL, and adding another disruptive defensive tackle could complement Chicago’s existing defensive front.

It's a position group that tends to offer strong value on Day 2 of the draft, making it a potential target if the Bears choose to address other needs early.

Safety Depth

The addition of Bryant gives the Bears a high-end starter, but safety could still remain a position to monitor.

Adding another young safety with range and coverage ability would provide both depth and insurance if the Bears don't land another veteran starter.

Running Back

The Chicago Bears may also consider adding another running back to the offense.

Even if Chicago is confident in D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai, the draft provides an opportunity to add a future contributor. Swift is in the final year of his contract, and it's unlikely he'll land a second deal with the Bears.

Many teams use mid-round picks to find versatile backs who can contribute both as runners and receivers, which is what the Bears will target to eventually replace Swift.

Given the importance of a strong backfield in Ben Johnson's offense, running back as a draft priority should never be ruled out.

The Big Picture for the Chicago Bears

Free agency helped the Bears address several immediate needs, particularly on defense. But the draft remains an important opportunity for general manager Ryan Poles to continue shaping the roster with long-term building blocks.

The first wave of signings has clarified where Chicago may look next.

And when the 2026 NFL Draft arrives, the Bears will likely be targeting impact players who can help push the franchise closer to sustained contention.