2026 Chicago Bears Rookie Preview

Chicago went from worst to first in 2025, riding seven fourth-quarter comebacks and a league-leading 23 interceptions to a 12-7 record, but repeating that formula won't be easy. With opposing coordinators now holding a full season of film on Ben Johnson's offense, a 29th-ranked defense being retooled under Dennis Allen, and a first-place schedule ahead, Leo Haggerty projects a step back to 8-9. He also breaks down a rookie class that adds youth and versatility across the secondary, offensive line, and both sides of the trenches.

Team Snapshot

Conference: NFC North

Head Coach: Ben Johnson

2025 Record: 12-7

Key Games: Minnesota, Detroit, Green Bay, Dallas

Season Outlook

Chicago went from the outhouse in 2024 to the penthouse in 2025. Now the big question is whether the organization can stay in the high-rent district of the ultra-competitive NFC North. Last season produced some extreme highs, including seven fourth-quarter comeback wins and a league-leading takeaway total despite the absence of a dominant pass rush or run defense.

Those circumstances will be difficult to duplicate, and the Bears know it. More than half of the defense will feature new faces as defensive coordinator Dennis Allen retools the unit with players who better fit his scheme. A wave of late-season injuries may also linger into the opener, while a first-place schedule adds another layer of difficulty. Reaching double-digit wins again would be an accomplishment.

2026 Prediction: Projected Record: 8-9

The biggest issue for Da' Bears is that opposing defensive coordinators now have a full season of film on Ben Johnson's offense in the Windy City. They will be better prepared for this version of Caleb Williams, although the offense itself was not the problem in 2025. Chicago cut its sack total from a team-record 68 in 2024 to just 24 last season, third-best in the NFL.

The defense was another story, finishing 29th in total defense. What saved Chicago was a league-leading 23 interceptions and a plus-22 turnover differential. The chances of repeating both numbers are slim. Add in several players still recovering from late-season injuries, and legitimate concerns linger entering 2026. Unless the defense climbs at least into the middle of the pack, the Blue & Orange are likely to take a step backward in the NFC North.

Rookie Prospects

Dillon Thieneman, S, 6’0”, 201 lbs., Oregon

Thieneman was not considered a major draft prospect during his two seasons at Purdue, but that changed after he exploded with Oregon in 2025. He is extremely versatile and processes what is happening in front of him quickly. Thieneman has extraordinary hands for a back-end defender, will come down into the box, and is a reliable finisher. He adds youth, leadership, and speed to the secondary and projects as a three-down safety.

Logan Jones, C, 6’3”, 299 lbs., Iowa

Jones was a four-year starter for the Hawkeyes after being recruited as a defensive lineman and later moving to center. He won the Rimington Trophy and brings intelligence, movement skills, and a highly active style of play. Massive NFL defensive tackles could give him problems at times, but Jones should get an opportunity to compete for playing time early.

Sam Roush, TE, 6’5”, 267 lbs., Stanford

Roush is a huge tight end who also dabbled in rugby. He comes from good football stock, with Hall of Famer Merlin Olsen as his great-uncle. After his best season at Stanford, Roush followed it with an eye-catching Combine workout. He brings smarts and athleticism and embraces the physical side of the game, as you would expect from a former rugger. His hands can be inconsistent and his blocking needs work, but he gives Chicago flexibility at tight end while developing into a potential starter.

Zavion Thomas, WR, 5’10”, 190 lbs., LSU

Thomas is already an accomplished kick returner. He did not start many games at Mississippi State or LSU as a wide receiver, but his elite speed will be useful on jet sweeps, bubble screens, and return opportunities. You cannot coach speed. The jury is still out on whether he can become a consistent NFL receiver, but there is little debate about his value as a return specialist.

Malik Muhammad, CB, 6’0”, 182 lbs., Texas

Muhammad was an all-conference performer in the ultra-competitive SEC. He has a sleek frame with room to add weight and is a willing, effective tackler. He has NFL-level cornerback quickness, though he doesn't always use it consistently. Muhammad can play press coverage and could see snaps in nickel and dime packages early.

Keyshaun Elliott, LB, 6’1”, 233 lbs., Arizona State

Elliott was a huge part of the New Mexico State defense before moving on to Arizona State. His uncle, Lenvil Elliott, played running back for the 49ers. Elliott is a true sideline-to-sideline linebacker who does a good job diagnosing what is coming. He is better playing downhill than he is in coverage, but he was a leader at both programs and should bring that same mentality to Chicago.

Jordan van der Berg, DT, 6’3”, 310 lbs., Georgia Tech

A native of South Africa, van der Berg began his collegiate career as a JUCO standout before moving to Penn State and eventually finishing at Georgia Tech. He is a raw talent with a high ceiling, a willingness to learn, and a nonstop motor. He never quits on a play and gives the Bears an intriguing developmental piece on the defensive line.