The 2026 NFL Combine, held recently in Indianapolis, offered critical insights that are influencing projections for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Teams are re-evaluating their choices based on player performances, with particular attention on how this impacts the Chicago Bears’ strategy.
Following the evaluation of key prospects, this mock draft outlines potential picks focusing on the Bears’ top selections and league-wide priorities for rebuilding and strengthening rosters.
Projected Early First-Round Selections Based on Combine Performances
The Las Vegas Raiders, holding the first overall pick, appear set to choose Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza to solidify their offense, a decision reportedly confirmed by Raiders’ owners Mark Davis and Tom Brady. Mendoza’s availability addresses the Raiders’ urgent need for a franchise quarterback alongside their weapons.
The New York Jets, with the second pick, aim to bolster their defense by selecting Ohio State’s defensive end Vell Reese, who impressed with a sub-4.50 40-yard dash. This follows the Jets’ recent trade, moving Edge Jermaine Johnson to Tennessee for defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat, indicating a clear focus on strengthening their defensive line.
Arizona Cardinals, at third, look towards Texas Tech linebacker David Bailey to enhance their pass rush, anticipating a future separation from quarterback Kyler Murray while prioritizing defensive improvement in a unit that struggled to generate sacks.
At fourth, the Tennessee Titans intend to select Miami’s defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr., shifting him to an interior role, taking advantage of their trade of T’Vondre Sweat to fill a critical position on Robert Salah’s defense.
Mid-First-Round Choices Reflecting Team Needs
The New York Giants plan to add athleticism to their offensive front with Utah tackle Spencer Fano, protecting quarterback Jaxson Dart. The Cleveland Browns, picking sixth, opt for Miami’s offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa, aiming to solidify their offensive line ahead of selecting skill players later.
Washington Commanders focus on linebacker Sonny Styles from Ohio State, who distinguished himself at the Combine and could replace Bobby Wagner if he leaves in free agency. The New Orleans Saints look toward Notre Dame’s running back Jeremiyah Love to complement their offensive weapons Tyler Shough and Chris Olave.
Kansas City Chiefs select Ohio State’s versatile wide receiver Carnell Tate, resisting any trades to maintain their receiving corps strength.
The Cincinnati Bengals pick at tenth and select Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, benefiting from the market undervaluing safeties despite his reliability and skill.
Later First-Round Picks Targeting Defensive and Offensive Support
The Miami Dolphins, aiming for longevity on defense, choose LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane. The Dallas Cowboys, holding two picks, add Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy, who impressed at the Combine overcoming injury concerns, then Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell later, reinforcing both defensive backfield and pass rush.
The Los Angeles Rams take USC wide receiver Makai Lemon to prepare a successor for Davante Adams, while Baltimore Ravens select Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq to potentially replace Isaiah Likely and strengthen their offensive scheme.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers select Auburn edge rusher Keldric Faulk, opting for a different pass rusher after what was considered a notable Combine season from Sonny Styles.
The Jets pick Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson to build offensive depth while preparing for a quarterback-rich 2027 draft.
Continuing Depth-Building Moves in the First Round
The Detroit Lions select Miami edge rusher Akheem Mesidor, complementing Aidan Hutchinson and reinforcing their defensive line’s vigor. Minnesota Vikings prepare for the possible retirement of safety Harrison Smith by picking Oregon’s Dillon Thienman, whose Combine performance impressed evaluators.
Carolina Panthers add Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods to pair with Derrick Brown, enhancing their interior defensive strength. Pittsburgh Steelers choose Texas A&M wide receiver KC Conception, potentially supporting a returning Aaron Rodgers.
Los Angeles Chargers select Penn State offensive guard Olaivavega Ioane to rebuild their line after losing Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, and Philadelphia Eagles pick Georgia wide receiver Zachariah Branch to prepare for Lane Johnson’s possible retirement.
The Cleveland Browns make a second first-round selection, choosing Washington wide receiver Denzel Boston to support their young offensive core.
Chicago Bears’ Anticipated First-Round Selection
With the 25th pick, the Chicago Bears are projected to select Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald to anchor their run defense. Despite a less-than-stellar Combine showing, marked by a stiff physical appearance, McDonald’s ability as a powerful run stopper aligns with defensive coordinator Dennis Allen’s goals for revamping the defensive front.
The Bears face a strong edge rusher class, leading them to prioritize a defensive tackle who can provide stability against the run. Options for addressing their need at left tackle remain uncertain, with suggestions they might acquire a veteran or wait until later rounds.
Other prospects briefly considered by the Bears include Florida’s Caleb Banks (defensive tackle), Missouri’s Zion Young, and Clemson’s TJ Parker (both edge rushers).
Additional First-Round Picks Addressing Team Priorities
Buffalo Bills select Clemson edge rusher TJ Parker to improve their underperforming playoff pass rush under first-year defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard. San Francisco 49ers add Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. to prepare for Brandon Aiyuk’s potential departure.
Houston Texans take Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks, recognizing his physical tools despite some injury concerns, aiming to support their pass rush alongside Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter. The Rams select Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood, addressing a critical defensive backfield need.
Denver Broncos pick Georgia linebacker CJ Allen, matching reports that linked him to the team. New England Patriots select Utah offensive lineman Caleb Lomu to eventually replace aging starter Morgan Moses on the right tackle.
The Seattle Seahawks choose Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell to reinforce their championship defense, with the option of running back selection if Kenneth Walker departs via free agency.
Implications for the Bears and NFL Landscape Moving Forward
This mock draft reflects an urgent and intense environment after the combine, where defensive upgrades dominate the Chicago Bears’ draft strategy. Selecting Kayden McDonald signals a commitment to fortify a pivotal area on defense, addressing run defense deficiencies evidenced in prior seasons.
Throughout the first round, teams balance offensive weapons with defensive reinforcements, often targeting positions aligned with their projected free agency movements or current gaps. The Bears’ decision to pursue a defensive tackle over the more celebrated edge rushers highlights a tactical focus on foundational defense rather than high-profile flashes.
As free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft approach, the Bears’ pick will be critical in defining their competitive direction, with defensive coordinator Dennis Allen’s vision driving personnel choices. The league’s shifting quarterback and skill position scenarios add complex layers to team decisions, while the Bears prioritize defense to regain footing among playoff contenders.
