6 center options for the Chicago Bears in the 2026 NFL Draft

Following the shocking retirement of Pro Bowl center Drew Dalman, the Chicago Bears find themselves looking for their long-term solution heading into the 2026 NFL Draft. The news of Dalman's retirement was sudden and unexpected, especially at 27 years old, coming off a Pro Bowl season and in the first year of a three-year $42 million deal. But Dalman, looking out for his longer-term health, felt it was time.

Dalman was part of general manager Ryan Poles’ 2025 offensive line retooling that translated to just 24 sacks allowed, the second fewest in the league. He was the staple in the middle, playing all of 1,154 offensive snaps last season. Chicago quickly pivoted, trading for veteran Garrett Bradbury, who came off a Super Bowl season with the New England Patriots.

After being drafted 18th overall in 2019, Bradbury, 30, joins the Bears and will get to play alongside college teammate, All-Pro left guard Joe Thuney. Poles didn’t elect to spend big money and sign Tyler Linderbaum, who got a three-year, $81 million contract. Instead, Chicago opted for the short-term, cheaper option because the 2026 draft class has a handful of guys who could fill the Bears' center vacancy for the future.

Here is the breakdown of the centers in this season's NFL draft, their strengths and weaknesses, and which one suits the Bears best with their seven draft picks. Sam Hecht, Kansas State Measurables: 6-foot-4, 303 pounds 31 5/8 inch arms, 9 7/8 inch hands Sam Hecht is the most polished of the many prospects in this year's NFL draft. He’s light on his feet, which allows him to move quickly in both run and pass block situations, and his athleticism makes up for his slightly undersized frame.