2026 NFL Draft: Chicago Bears’ Potential Top Targets as College Football Season Concludes
With the college football regular season officially in the rearview mirror and bowl games on the horizon, the focus for many NFL teams, including the Chicago Bears, is already shifting towards the upcoming draft cycle. The Bears, having closely monitored the collegiate landscape throughout the fall, are likely evaluating a wealth of talent that could significantly bolster their roster in the 2026 NFL Draft. Here’s a look at some of the standout prospects who could be at the top of their draft board.
Offensive Playmakers: Securing the Future
Jeremiyah Love, Running Back – Notre Dame
If the Bears’ strategy in last year’s draft was to build an offense around a tight end in the top 10, their next move might be to secure the long-term future of their running back corps with a premier talent like Jeremiyah Love. Love is widely considered a top-tier prospect, potentially ranking within the top two or five players in the entire draft class. His exceptional season, which saw him accumulate over 1,600 scrimmage yards and 21 touchdowns, earned him an invitation to the Heisman Trophy ceremony.
Love represents the “lightning” element to complement the “thunder” they acquired last offseason in Kyle Monangai. Given the Bears’ trajectory as a potential playoff contender, acquiring a player of Love’s caliber might necessitate a trade-up. Projections currently place him in the top 15, with the potential to climb into the top 10 as his collegiate career concludes. The addition of Love would provide long-term stability to the running back position, especially as D’Andre Swift enters the final year of his contract in 2026.
Reinforcing the Trenches: Offensive Line Investments
The offensive line is a cornerstone of any successful NFL team, and the Bears have demonstrated a clear commitment to investing in this unit. The team has seen significant rotation at left tackle this past season, with Braxton Jones, Theo Benedet, and Ozzy Trapilo all seeing action. While Jones is nearing the end of his rookie deal, and Benedet and Trapilo have shown promise, the Bears may still opt to further solidify their protection.
Kayden Proctor, Offensive Tackle – Alabama
Kayden Proctor is a physically imposing presence, a massive lineman who has graded out as one of the top tackles in the highly competitive SEC. His accolades include being named a Walter Camp All-American, and he possesses the potential to be a long-term solution at the critical left tackle position.
Considering the Bears’ consistent emphasis on building a strong offensive line, Proctor could very well emerge as a top target. His blend of size, strength, and collegiate success makes him an attractive prospect for a team looking to protect its quarterback and establish a dominant run game.
Francis Mauigoa, Offensive Tackle – Miami (FL)
Echoing many of Proctor’s strengths, Francis Mauigoa is another highly touted offensive tackle. Also a Walter Camp All-American, Mauigoa is characterized by his size and physicality, and he is widely viewed as a prospect capable of anchoring the blind side of an offensive line.
However, the Bears’ pursuit of either Proctor or Mauigoa hinges on their evaluation of their current left tackle situation. If they are confident in the development of Trapilo or Benedet, they might shift their focus to other needs. The final stretch of the regular season will be crucial in determining the team’s long-term plans at left tackle, and if they decide to invest further, Mauigoa and Proctor represent excellent options.
Defensive Reinforcements: Adding Playmakers and Pass Rushers
C.J. Allen, Linebacker – Georgia
The linebacker position could also be a point of interest for the Bears, particularly if they decide to make changes to their current roster. Moving on from Tremaine Edmunds could free up significant salary cap space, and Allen presents an intriguing option at linebacker. His playing style has drawn comparisons to Roquan Smith, a former Bears star, suggesting he possesses the instincts and playmaking ability that are vital for a successful defense.
Allen was a pivotal force in Georgia’s defense during the SEC Championship game, playing a significant role in limiting Alabama’s rushing attack to a mere -3 yards. His prowess as a run defender would be a valuable asset in a division featuring several talented running backs, fitting perfectly into the defensive scheme.
David Bailey, Edge Rusher – Texas Tech
At some juncture, the Bears are expected to use a high draft pick to acquire a premier pass-rushing prospect. This upcoming draft class is particularly deep at the edge rusher position, and David Bailey could be the player who commands that selection.
After transferring from Stanford to Texas Tech, Bailey emerged as a game-changing pass rusher, recording 13.5 sacks and forcing three fumbles for a College Football Playoff contender. The Bears’ pass rush has faced inconsistency at times, and Bailey embodies the consistent pressure that teams covet. While the Bears currently have a strong group of defensive ends, Bailey’s ability to generate pressure could make him a valuable addition to their rotation, fitting well within the defensive philosophy of utilizing multiple pass rushers.
Beyond Bailey, the Bears have several other promising edge rushers in this draft class to consider:
- Zion Young, Missouri
- Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (FL)
- T.J. Parker, Clemson
- Cashius Howell, Texas A&M