Latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft Has Chicago Bears Loading Up on Defense
A new 2026 NFL mock draft projects the Chicago Bears focusing heavily on defense, adding several impact defenders to strengthen the roster.
The Chicago Bears have spent the early part of the NFL offseason reinforcing their defense in free agency, and the latest 2026 mock draft suggests that approach may continue in April.
A new four-round Bears mock draft from Athlon Sports' Luke Easterling sends several defensive playmakers to Chicago in the 2026 NFL Draft, starting with a potential impact defensive tackle in the first round.
Round 1 (Pick 25): Peter Woods, Defensive Line, Clemson
Easterling projects Chicago addressing the defensive interior with Clemson standout Peter Woods.
The Bears have talent along the defensive line, especially with Gervon Dexter emerging as a potential breakout candidate in 2026. But the unit still lacks a true interior disruptor who can consistently collapse the pocket.
Woods has the kind of rare physical profile that evaluators love: a powerful frame combined with surprising athleticism for a player his size.
If he develops as expected, Woods could become the type of difference-maker inside that changes how opposing offenses approach protection schemes. He'd also give GM Ryan Poles flexibility when deciding whether to give a massive second contract to Dexter.
Round 2 (Pick 57): Dani Dennis-Sutton, Edge, Penn State
In the second round, Easterling addresses another major need by pairing Dani Dennis-Sutton with edge rusher Montez Sweat.
Chicago’s pass rush lacked consistency last season. Sweat simply didn't get enough help on the other side of him. Austin Booker has exciting upside, but the best pass-rushes feature a three-man rotation capable of wreaking havoc.
Dennis-Sutton offers intriguing upside as a powerful edge defender who can pressure quarterbacks and set the edge against the run.
Round 2 (Pick 60): Zakee Wheatley, Safety, Penn State
At this point in the offseason, the Bears have no choice but to address safety with one of their first three picks in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Enter Penn State's Zakee Wheatley.
Even after signing Coby Bryant in free agency, Chicago could still benefit from additional depth and versatility at safety. Bryant was a great addition, but the starting spot alongside him is up for grabs. A player like Wheatley could step right in and give coordinator Dennis Allen quality reps.
Modern defenses thrive on interchangeable defensive backs, and Wheatley fits that profile.
Round 3 (Pick 89): Deontae Lawson, Linebacker, Alabama
In the third round, the Bears add linebacker Deontae Lawson, another defender with SEC experience and proven instincts.
Lawson plays with the type of downhill aggression that fits well with what Poles and the Bears are prioritizing this offseason. With Chicago already adding Devin Bush in free agency, Lawson could develop behind veterans while eventually competing for a larger role.
Depth at linebacker becomes critical over the course of a long season, and Lawson brings both production and athleticism.
Round 4 (Pick 129): Sam Hecht, Offensive Line, Kansas State
Easterling finally turns to the offensive side of the ball in the fourth round, projecting Kansas State lineman Sam Hecht to Chicago.
While the defense has received much of the offseason attention, protecting Williams will remain a long-term priority. Adding developmental offensive line talent gives the Bears additional flexibility as they continue building depth along the front.
Hecht projects as a center in the pros. After Drew Dalman's shocking retirement and Garrett Bradbury serving as a bridge starter, a player like Hecht in Round 4 makes sense.
An NFL Draft Strategy Focused on Defense
What stands out about this Chicago Bears mock draft is its clear theme: It's all about the defense.
Chicago has already added defensive pieces like Neville Gallimore, Bryant, and Bush during free agency, but this 2026 mock draft suggests the front office will continue investing heavily on that side of the ball in the draft.
The only curveball could come at left tackle. Chicago re-signed Braxton Jones to a one-year contract, and former first-round pick Jedrick Wills is a wildcard. But it feels like left tackle remains unsettled after the first few waves of free agency.
