The Chicago Bears have a clear path to address multiple roster needs during the 2026 NFL Draft, as outlined in a recent PFF mock draft simulation. The team, which finished the 2025 season without a playoff appearance, is looking to rebuild and return to contention with a focus on defensive line depth, linebacker additions, and wide receiver help, among other positions.

Defensive Line Priorities

In the first round, the Bears are projected to select defensive tackle Kayden McDonald from Ohio State with the 25th overall pick. McDonald, a run-stopping force, is seen as a direct response to the Bears’ aging defensive line, which currently relies on veterans like Grady Jarrett and Gervon Dexter. With Dexter potentially traded and Jarrett entering his 33rd year, the Bears need immediate help and long-term stability.

McDonald, who has been compared to D.J. Reader by NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein, is a disruptive force against the run. His ability to stop the run game aligns with a growing trend in the NFL to value players who can handle the physicality of modern offenses. This pick could also serve as a counter to division rivals who emphasize the running game.

Linebacker Room Rebuilding

The Bears’ second-round selection, pick 57, is projected to be linebacker Josiah Trotter from Missouri. The team’s linebacker corps is in flux, with veteran T.J. Edwards set to turn 30 before the 2026 season and Tremaine Edmunds already on the trade block. Trotter, the son of former NFL linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Sr., brings a physical presence and downhill rushing ability, though scouts have concerns about his coverage skills.

Despite these concerns, the Bears could use Trotter as a run-stopping off-ball linebacker on early downs while developing his coverage abilities. This pick reflects the team’s need for players who can contribute immediately in a physical, gap-control scheme.

Wide Receiver Addition

In the third round, the Bears are projected to select wide receiver Chris Brazzell II from Tennessee with the 89th overall pick. This is a surprising move given that Brazzell was once viewed as a potential first-round talent. However, his drop in rankings may be due to inconsistent performance or questions about his ability to adjust to the pro level.

Brazzell, standing at 6-foot-4 and 198 pounds, has the size and speed to be a physical WR3 in the Bears’ offense. His potential to thrive under head coach Ben Johnson’s innovative system could make him a valuable addition, especially with trade rumors surrounding DJ Moore.

Safety Room Rebuilding

The Bears’ fourth-round pick, 129th overall, is projected to be safety Michael Taaffe from Texas. This move addresses a pressing need as several of the Bears’ current safeties, including Jaquan Brisker and Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, are expected to hit free agency in 2026.

Taaffe, a fifth-year senior from Texas, has experience as a starting safety and has recorded seven interceptions over his final three collegiate seasons. While he may not project as a starter right away, his value could come from special teams and developmental upside as a backup free safety.

Center Needs Addressed

The Bears’ fifth-round pick, 163rd overall, is projected to be center Pat Coogan from Indiana. This is a critical pick following the unexpected retirement of center Drew Dalman, who left the team shortly before the start of the new league year. The Bears are expected to pursue free agent Tyler Biadasz but could also use a developmental option in the draft.

Coogan, a veteran center with experience in both college and professional settings, has the physical and mental traits to become a starter. At the very least, he could provide depth behind a new addition to the Bears’ offensive line.

Late-Round Additions

In the seventh round, the Bears are projected to select tackle Fa’amoe from Wake Forest with the 239th pick and defensive tackle Rayshaun Benny from Michigan with the 241st pick. Both players are seen as depth additions rather than immediate starters.

Fa’amoe, a streaky tackle prospect, could serve as a backup for Darnell Wright or as a swing tackle in certain situations. Benny, a 3-technique defensive tackle with strong run-stopping ability, could find a role as a rotational player on early downs.

These late-round selections reflect the Bears’ strategy to add depth across the roster while preparing for a complete rebuild in 2026.