Predicting the Bears' starting defense after 2026 NFL Draft

The 2026 NFL Draft is in the books, and the Chicago Bears welcomed seven new rookies to the roster, including four new defensive players. The Bears had four picks in the first three rounds of the draft, which included some impactful additions of safety Dillon Thieneman, center Logan Jones, tight end Sam Roush and wide receiver Zavion Thomas. They also added some high upside rookies in cornerback Malik Muhammad, linebacker Keyshaun Elliott and defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg on Day 3.

When looking at this defense, there are still some concerns about the defensive line, especially considering how Chicago didn't add a big name this offseason via free agency or the NFL Draft. But the Bears did improve their secondary, including the addition of Thieneman to pair with newcomer Coby Bryant. Following the 2026 NFL Draft, we’re predicting what Chicago's starting defense will look like.

DE Montez Sweat While the pass rush notably struggled, Montez Sweat had a bounce-back year after a disappointing 2024 season. Sweat recorded double-digit sacks for the first time with the Bears (he totaled 12. 5 between Chicago and Washington when the Commanders traded him in 2023).

He also totaled 53 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 18 QB hits, 53 pressures, three forced fumbles and five pass breakups. While Sweat wasn't a superstar at the position, he was consistent and was easily the best part of Chicago's struggling pass rush. DE Austin Booker The Bears didn't target an edge rusher in free agency or the draft, so it'll be a battle between Austin Booker and Dayo Odeyingbo for the starting job opposite Sweat.