2026 NFL mock draft roundup: Bears zero in on key defensive needs

The Chicago Bears are looking to take a step forward in head coach Ben Johnson's second season, but they still have some roster needs to address before the start of the 2026 season to ensure that happens. 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 believe the Bears will target safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren or a defensive lineman with the 25th overall pick. Simply put: It's defense or bust.

USA Today: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz : "Ryan Poles has already demonstrated that he's willing to pay a premium for playmaking ability at safety after handing Coby Bryant a three-year, $40 million deal. He can complete his team's transformation at the position by nabbing McNeil-Warren, an authoritative run stopper who has considerable upside in matching up against the NFC North's imposing tight ends. " The Athletic: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo Vic Tafur : "The Bears have a lot of offensive players they are counting on to get better, so why not add a tall safety who can make plays on the ball and get the offense more chances?

" ESPN: Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri Field Yates : "The Bears need to keep investing in edge rushers after tying for the worst pass rush win rate in 2025 (28. 8%) and not signing any big-time free agents. Young would be a good fit here because of his play style.