Chicago Bears NFL Draft 2026: Start Time, Channel, How to Watch

The 2026 NFL Draft isn’t just another offseason event for the Chicago Bears. It’s a critical checkpoint in a roster build that’s already ahead of schedule in the Ben Johnson and Caleb Wiliams era.

With Chicago picking late in Round 1 and operating from a position of strength, this is a draft that Bears fans will follow closely from start to finish. It also provides a unique viewing experience for Bears fans who are all too used to Chicago selecting in the top 10 following many failed seasons.

Here’s exactly how to watch it and, more importantly, how Bears fans should approach it.

When Does the NFL Draft Start?

Mark your calendar:

• Round 1: Thursday, April 23 at 8:00 PM ET
• Rounds 2–3: Friday, April 24 at 7:00 PM ET
• Rounds 4–7: Saturday, April 25 at 12:00 PM ET

For Chicago Bears fans, Thursday night will grab the headlines, but the real action begins on Day 2 when the Bears have two picks in the second round. There's a chance GM Ryan Poles will use that extra ammunition to trade up.

What Channel Is the 2026 NFL Draft On?

You have three primary viewing options, each with a different flavor:

• ESPN
• ABC
• NFL Network

Which Broadcast Should Bears Fans Watch?

• NFL Network: Best for film breakdowns and scheme fits. Ideal if you want to understand how a pick fits Ben Johnson’s system.
• ESPN: Balanced coverage with insider reporting and league-wide context.
• ABC: More storytelling and casual viewing, fewer X’s and O’s.

If you’re locked in on what Chicago is doing at No. 25, NFL Network is the sharpest feed.

How to Stream the 2026 NFL Draft

If you’re not watching on cable, you still have multiple options:

• ESPN app (with login)
• NFL app
• Streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu Live, and Fubo

All major platforms will carry at least one of the draft broadcasts live.

When Will the Bears Pick?

The Bears are currently slotted at No. 25 overall in Round 1.

Here are the rest of Chicago's 2026 draft picks:

• 2-57
• 2-60 (from Bills)
• 3-89
• 4-129 (from Rams)
• 7-239 (from Eagles via Browns)
• 7-241

The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft will move at a quicker pace. The NFL reduced the time between picks to just eight minutes.

What Bears Fans Should Watch For Live

This isn’t a year where Chicago is chasing a quarterback or forcing a rebuild pick. That changes how you watch the draft. Poles will let the board fall to him, which means Bears fans must keep a close eye on how the first round unfolds before No. 25.

MORE: Bears Insider Reveals Ben Johnson’s Major Role in 2026 NFL Draft

Here's what to watch:

1. The Edge Rusher Run

If multiple edge defenders go between picks 15–24, the Bears could be boxed into a different position group.

2. Offensive Line Value

If a top tackle like Caleb Lomu slides, that becomes a legitimate pivot point.

3. Trade Activity

Poles has consistently shown a willingness to move.

• If a top player at a Bears' position of need begins to slide, buckle up
• If the top players at Bears' needs get wiped out before No. 25, a trade out of Round 1 is very possible

Watch the phones as much as the board.

4. Defensive Identity Picks

Names like T.J. Parker or Emmanuel McNeil-Warren fit what this defense still lacks: physical tone-setters. And don't rule out Peter Woods.

Why This Draft Feels Different for the Chicago Bears

For the first time in years, Bears fans aren’t watching the draft hoping to be saved. They’re watching to see how a contender gets better.

MORE: Chicago Bears Enter 2026 NFL Draft With No Clear Plan at No. 25

With Caleb Williams established, a playoff appearance already in the rearview mirror, and Ben Johnson setting the tone, this draft is about advancing the roster from a fun playoff run to a legitimate contender in 2026.

That changes the viewing experience entirely. Every pick is about maximizing a window, not creating one.

The Bears' Bottom Line

If you’re tuning in Thursday night, don’t just watch for the name called at No. 25.

Watch the board. Watch the runs. Watch the trades.

And most of all, enjoy the ride.