What draft experts said about new Bears UDFA guard Caden Barnett

The Chicago Bears welcomed seven new rookies through the 2026 NFL Draft, but they didn't stop there, signing a handful of undrafted rookies who didn't hear their names called during the draft. Chicago's biggest UDFA signing was Wyoming guard Caden Barnett. Barnett, also known as the Vanilla Gorilla, brings a nastiness to the offensive trenches and has the athleticism that Ben Johnson, Ryan Poles and the Bears have coveted this offseason.

Barnett also brings versatility to the table, having played both right tackle and right guard during his time at Wyoming. Barnett has a great chance to make the 53-man roster, and his contract speaks for itself. The Bears signed Barnett to a $277,500 deal and a $30,000 signing bonus.

Only five UDFA signings received more guaranteed money in their contracts. He's certainly someone to watch this summer. Here's what some expert draft analysts had to say about Barnett during the pre-draft process and what Bears fans can expect to see: Dane Brugler, The Athletic "A three-year starter at Wyoming, Barnett lined up at right guard in offensive coordinator Jovon Bouknight’s zone-heavy scheme.

Having played in all 48 games the past four seasons, he was a durable presence for the Cowboys’ offense, starting his sophomore and junior years at right tackle before moving inside to right guard as a senior. Denver Broncos offensive tackle Frank Crum was his mentor at Wyoming. Barnett has a very solid foundation for teams to work with in the NFL.