2026 NFL mock draft roundup: New favorite emerges for Bears at No. 25

The Chicago Bears have been busy in free agency shoring up some key needs on the roster, adding some new faces and bringing back some familiar ones. So how has that impacted Chicago's plans for the 2026 NFL Draft? There are some obvious needs following the first wave of free agency, including defensive tackle, edge rusher and safety.

The Bears didn't really make a splash in the defensive trenches, adding a couple of depth options in Neville Gallimore and Kentavius Street and not really addressing the edge. Meanwhile, Chicago signed Super Bowl-winning safety Coby Bryant, but both Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker signed with other teams, which leaves a starting safety job to fill in the draft. We've rounded up the latest 2026 NFL mock drafts, where experts agree the Bears will address defense at 25th overall, and there's a new favorite to land with Chicago after free agency.

USA Today: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo Nate Davis : "Need a Monster of the Midway? How about a 6-foot-4, 200-pound DB with a penchant for big hits and finding the ball? And it certainly seems like the Bears could use one with All-Pro Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker leaving the back line during free agency.

McNeil-Warren and recently signed Coby Bryant could equate to a nice recovery plan. " The Athletic: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo Dan Wiederer : "One thing has become apparent during all these pre-draft exercises: The menu of players available at No. 25 is consistently appealing.