Chicago Bears Fix Secondary, Add Defensive Line Help in New 2026 NFL Mock Draft

The Chicago Bears are not expected to take a big swing in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. If anything, Ryan Poles may move up or down a few spots, but nothing more aggressive than that.

That measured approach is reflected in the latest top-100 mock draft from The Athletic's Nick Baumgardner.

Chicago holds four picks inside the top 100, and in this projection, Baumgardner leans into defense early while still adding a weapon for Caleb Williams.

The result is a class that balances immediate needs with long-term roster building.

Round 1: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren Brings Range and Physicality to Bears' Defense

At No. 25, the Bears select Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren.

This is a pick that makes more sense the more you study it. There is a real chance McNeil-Warren is the best player available when Ryan Poles is on the clock, and landing that player while also filling a major need is the ideal outcome.

Safety remains one of the most obvious holes on Chicago’s roster. McNeil-Warren brings size, range, and the versatility to play either spot, making him a natural fit alongside Coby Bryant.

Baumgardner points to his instincts against the run, and that shows up consistently on tape. Those traits carry extra weight in the NFC North, where physical play still defines the division.

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A pairing of McNeil-Warren and Bryant would give the Bears a young, athletic foundation on the back end, something the defense has lacked for years. The tandem of Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker felt like a year-to-year proposition.

Defensive tackle is firmly in play at this spot, but passing on a player with this level of versatility and value would be difficult.

Day 2: Bears Double Down on the Defensive Line

Chicago continues to address major needs in the second and third rounds, with a brief detour to add speed to the passing game.

At No. 57, the Bears select Florida State defensive tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. Three picks later at No. 60, they shift to offense with Tennessee wide receiver Chris Brazzell II.

Jackson is the more impactful addition.

He brings size and power to the interior, giving the Bears a potential running mate for Gervon Dexter as he enters a contract year. Chicago added depth to the defensive line this offseason, but it still lacks a consistent presence that can control the line of scrimmage.

Jackson has the tools to fill that role.

Round 2 Continued: Adding Another Weapon for Caleb Williams

The Brazzell pick is about depth and long-term development.

Chicago’s receiver room is already in good shape, led by Rome Odunze and Luther Burden, but adding another vertical threat keeps the offense expanding.

Brazzell brings field-stretching speed, size on the outside, and upside within a growing passing attack.

It is not a pressing need, but it aligns with the goal of continuing to build around Caleb Williams.

Round 3: More Investment in the Interior Defensive Line

At No. 89, the Bears go back to the defensive front with Missouri defensive tackle Chris McClellan.

This is where the direction of the Bears' 2026 Draft class comes into focus in this mock draft.

Chicago is not adding a single piece to the defensive line. It is reshaping the entire group.

McClellan provides depth and rotational value. Paired with Darrell Jackson Jr., the Bears would come out of Day 2 with two new interior defenders competing for snaps.

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That approach makes sense. The Bears don't need one star to fix the position. Ryan Poles needs to build a deeper, more competitive unit, and that starts with adding multiple players capable of pushing for starting reps.

What This Mock Draft Gets Right for the Bears

This 2026 mock draft haul aligns with what the Bears are expected to do.

They:

• Address safety early
• Invest heavily in the defensive line
• Continue building around Caleb Williams
• Add competition across key positions

It's the kind of strategy that could become reality on draft weekend, although I'd anticipate a left tackle coming to Chicago with one of those first three selections.

The Bears' Bottom Line

The Athletic’s 2026 mock draft takes a balanced, forward-looking approach for the Chicago Bears.

Chicago comes away with a starting safety, reinforces the interior defensive line, and adds another weapon for Caleb Williams.

Still, the absence of a left tackle and a true edge rusher in the first three picks leaves something to be desired.

If Chicago is serious about taking the next step in 2026, those two positions cannot be secondary priorities. There is still time to address them later in the draft, but passing on both early would be a gamble. In a draft where the Bears have flexibility, the goal should be clear. Add impact players at premium positions, not just fill holes.