Bears Beat Writers Split on No. 25 Pick in 2026 NFL Draft

The closer we get to the 2026 NFL Draft, the clearer one thing becomes about the Chicago Bears: there is no consensus on what they’re going to do at No. 25 overall.

Not outside the building. Not inside the media. And not even among the two beat writers who cover the team most closely at The Athletic.

That split tells you everything about where this roster stands.

Two Directions, Two Philosophies for the Bears

On one side, Kevin Fishbain sees the Bears leaning into long-term offensive stability. His projection has Chicago selecting Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu, a move rooted in protecting franchise quarterback Caleb Williams and solidifying the offensive line for the next decade.

On the other, Dan Wiederer envisions a defensive pivot. His pick, Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, reflects a belief that the Bears still need a tone-setter on the back end, especially after an inconsistent 2025 season in coverage and run support.

Both paths are logical. That’s what makes this fascinating.

Why Caleb Lomu Makes Sense for Chicago

If you follow the breadcrumbs of how this front office has built around Caleb Williams, Fishbain’s projection tracks cleanly.

The Bears have already invested heavily in skill positions during the NFL Draft under Ben Johnson. The next step is protection. Lomu offers that. He profiles as a high-upside tackle with the length and movement skills to handle NFL edge speed, while still developing the strength to anchor consistently.

"Lomu is only 21 and didn’t allow a sack last year," Fishbain wrote. "The Bears have five left tackles, but do they have one? Lomu could win the starting job on Day 1, or maybe he can wait in the wings behind Braxton Jones. Arizona State’s Max Iheanachor, Clemson’s Blake Miller, and Alabama’s Kadyn Proctor could all be in play for the same reasons."

Why Emmanuel McNeil-Warren Fits the Bears as Well

Wiederer’s projection cuts in a completely different direction, but it addresses a real issue.

The Bears’ defense still lacks a true enforcer in the secondary. Someone who can erase mistakes, play downhill, and bring physicality in the run game. McNeil-Warren fits that mold.

"While safety may not be considered a premium position, McNeil-Warren offers so much of what the Bears are seeking for their defense, starting with his aggressive play style plus versatility that will pair well with free-agent newcomer Coby Bryant," Wiederer wrote. "Adding another big, physical, productive playmaker to Dennis Allen’s defense pushes the Bears forward."

If the Bears view their defensive identity as incomplete, this pick becomes more than just reasonable. It becomes likely.

What the Split Really Means for the Bears' 2026 NFL Draft

This isn’t disagreement for the sake of hot takes. It’s a reflection of where things stand inside Halas Hall as the 2026 NFL Draft inches closer.

While the Bears certainly have several needs, they don't have to force a pick in Round 1. They can choose to build strength or fix a weakness.

That’s why two plugged-in voices like Fishbain and Wiederer can land in completely different places, and they both feel right.

And it’s why the Chicago Bears might be one of the most unpredictable teams in the entire first round.