The full list of Chicago Bears 2026 NFL draft picks, free agents, and cap space after their playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams.

The 25 th pick will be the latest Bears first-round pick since 2011, when they drafted tackle Gabe Carimi No. 29. Since 2015, the Bears have either drafted in the top 11 of the first round or not at all. They didn’t have first-round picks in 2022, 2020 or 2019 because of trades for Justin Fields and Khalil Mack, respectively.

The Chicago Bears came up short of an appearance in the NFC title game and with their focus on the offseason, specifically improving their defensive line in the NFL Draft.

There are simply too many variables at play to make an accurate assessment on the matter. However, from the eye test, the Bears definitely seemed to have one of the league's best rookie classes. Do the analytics agree with that stance?

That's why when ESPN released their rankings of the NFL's draft classes, the Bears being ranked at 7th was a bit confusing. Now granted, there are some teams that legitimately deserve their spots above Chicago for now. The Cleveland Browns had a fantastic draft class, as did the New York Giants.

The Chicago Bears could lose one of the primary architects of their franchise turnaround, but draft compensation from the NFL will follow.

If the Chicago Bears' run to the NFC Divisional Round has clarified anything about the roster, it's that the defensive line remains a critical area for long-term improvement. Pro Football Focus appears to agree,

The 2024 quarterback draft class is looking like a special group with their collective quick NFL team and individual success.