The Chicago Bears are gearing up for a pivotal 2026 NFL Draft, aiming to solidify their roster for another competitive run under head coach Ben Johnson. With the draft on the horizon, all eyes are on how the front office will address key positions, starting with the linebacker corps.
This offseason saw significant turnover in the Bears' defensive lineup. While the team made a notable splash by signing Super Bowl champion safety Coby Bryant, they also experienced substantial losses, including the departures of key veterans like linebacker Tremaine Edmunds and safety Jaquan Brisker. The retirement of center Drew Dalman added another layer of complexity to their offseason strategy.
Entering the draft with seven picks, including four within the top 89 selections, the Bears have a prime opportunity to reinforce their defense. Linebacker remains a focal point, especially after the departure of Edmunds created a notable gap in the middle of the field.
The Bears moved quickly to address the position in free agency, securing former first-round pick Devin Bush following a career-best season. Bush is expected to slot in alongside defensive leader T.J. Edwards, forming a formidable tandem with proven tackling ability and playmaking instincts. This pairing should provide the defensive backbone the Bears need.
Adding valuable depth and experience, veteran Jack Sanborn returns to Chicago after a year with the Dallas Cowboys. While he'll need to adapt to defensive coordinator Dennis Allen's scheme, his familiarity with the organization and proven reliability will be crucial for rotational depth. The re-signing of D’Marco Jackson further bolsters the unit, providing a trusted option who stepped up admirably during injury spells last season.
As the draft approaches, the Bears' linebacker room appears stable with established veterans, but don't be surprised if General Manager Ryan Poles looks to the middle rounds to add a young, athletic prospect. Finding a developmental player to learn behind Bush and Edwards could be a savvy long-term move, ensuring the heart of the defense remains strong for years to come. For Bears fans, this draft is about building a complete team, and linebacker is a key piece of that puzzle.