The Chicago Bears made a savvy move in the final round of the 2026 NFL Draft, trading up to secure defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg from Georgia Tech. With only one defensive lineman selected in their entire draft class, this pick signals the team's strategic focus on shoring up their interior defensive line.

Heading into the final day of the draft, the Bears found themselves without a sixth-round pick. But instead of sitting idle, they orchestrated a trade with the Buffalo Bills, swapping both of their seventh-round selections to move up to pick No. 213. The target? Van den Berg, a raw but athletic prospect who showed flashes of potential at Georgia Tech despite limited high-level playing time.

The move underscores Chicago's confidence in their returning defensive players, particularly those recovering from injury. While fans may have hoped for a more aggressive approach to addressing the pass rush—whether on the edge or inside—the Bears' front office and coaching staff believe van den Berg's athletic upside can contribute to a revamped defensive front. After the pick, team scouts and coaches were quick to praise the rookie's potential, highlighting his quickness and motor as key assets.

For Bears fans, this trade-up is a reminder that the draft isn't just about the early rounds—it's about finding value where others might overlook it. Van den Berg may not be a household name today, but in Chicago's defensive scheme, he could develop into a reliable rotational piece. And for those tracking the team's rebuild, every pick counts—especially when it comes with a story like this one.