2026 NFL mock draft roundup: Edge rusher a lock for Bears at No. 25?

The Chicago Bears are getting ready for the 2026 NFL Draft, where general manager Ryan Poles and his staff are finalizing their plans before things kick off in Pittsburgh in less than a week. The Bears have several important holes to fill and premium draft capital to get it done. They have four picks in the first 89 selections, including a pair of second rounders after trading wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills.

But don't expect positional need to change general manager Ryan Poles' draft philosophy, where selecting the best available has always been the intent. With that said, there are holes at several positions on the roster, specifically defense, and you can see that reflected in yet another round of mock drafts. We've rounded up the latest 2026 NFL mock drafts, where experts believe Chicago is gearing up to add an impact edge rusher or perhaps sneak away with one of two top safeties.

USA Today: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo Aryton Ostly : "Chicago signed Cam Lewis and Coby Bryant in free agency, but still has a glaring need at safety after losing Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker. McNeil-Warren is the latest Toledo standout in the secondary to hit the draft. At 6-foot-3 and 201 pounds, he dishes out hits in run defense with solid ball skills as well in coverage with the frame to take on myriad assignments.

" The Athletic: T. J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson Dane Brugler : "The Bears have the edge rushers to line up today and play competitive football, but they would love to add another talented pass rusher to their rotation.