Across mock drafts — from veteran analysts to armchair GMs — one theme is nearly universal: the Chicago Bears are expected to prioritize the defensive line early in the draft.
Pro Football Focus’ latest mock draft has the Bears selecting Ohio State defensive lineman Kayden McDonald in the first round, and most full seven-round mocks from other outlets echo the same approach, with Chicago targeting the trenches in the opening rounds.
The logic is sound. While Bears’ defense leads the league with 31 takeaways, Chicago’s defense has also revealed clear vulnerability particularly up front. The Bears rank near the bottom of the league in sacks, hurries and overall pressures.
Bears defensive line playing better but not good enough
The defensive line has improved since a year ago, but offseason addition Grady Jarrett has yet to make the kind of on-field impact the Bears envisioned. His value has come more as a veteran presence and locker-room leader for a unit blending youth and experience.
Montez Sweat has been the exception, producing at a high level with 9.5 sacks, but much of the remaining group remains unproven. Under defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, the Bears are leaning on promising talents like Austin Booker and Dayo Odeyingbo, complemented by rotational contributors Andrew Billings, Chris Williams, and Dominique Robinson.
Will the Chicago defense be the downfall of the Bears?
Playoff experience is another concern. Outside of Jarrett, the defense has very little of it. While it’s tempting to imagine quarterback Caleb Williams and head coach Ben Johnson carrying the Bears on a deep postseason run, that scenario remains unlikely without further defensive upgrades.
For what it’s worth, Bears fans argue that they’ve been caught by the injury bug, but a lot of teams have and that’s no excuse to be ranked 27th in the NFL at stopping the run.
The Bears’ (11-4) defense has a big test on Sunday night against the San Francisco 49ers (11-4), whose offense has looked unstoppable as of late.