The 2026 NFL Draft continues to get closer with each passing day and with the Chicago Bears in an unfamiliar position picking much later in the first round than recent history. Slated to pick at No. 25 overall in the first round, the Bears will have an opportunity to address some pressing needs, specifically in the trenches and defensive secondary.
Chicago has continued to use a well-mixed combination of a youth movement while bringing in veterans in places most needing leadership, as they did with the offensive line this year. The Bears could be facing several big losses due to free agency this offseason, and the upcoming draft will provide a great opportunity for them to keep their core together while filling vacant areas.
Here's our first Bears 7-round mock draft looking at where Chicago could apply their focus to upgrading their roster this offseason.
Round 1, Pick 25: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
This will be a repeated selection for Chicago, as Emmanuel McNeil-Warren is one player in the 2026 class that is going to ascend into the spotlight sooner than later. A physical playmaker who would fit very well in Dennis Allen's defense, McNeil-Warren would have a very good chance to be a Week 1 starter.
Round 2, Pick 57: Dontay Corleone, DT, Cincinnati
A big time stopper in the run game during his college career, Dontay Corelone is exactly what the Bears need on the interior of their defensive line. Corelone could be just a rotational piece, or depending on what else Chicago does in the draft and free agency, he could help open up plenty for others on the defensive line.
Round 3, Pick 89: Gennings Dunker, OT, Iowa
The Big 10 knows how to build offensive linemen, and Gennings Dunker (with a name that sounds like a NFL offensive lineman), has exactly what the Bears need: versatility. At Iowa, Dunker played at right tackle and at inside guard spots, which could allow for Ben Johnson to move around other members as they look for an answer at the left tackle spot with Ozzy Trapilo sidelined. Dunker was First-team All-Big 10 this past season and has a motor that builds his relentless and nasty blocking style.
Round 4, Pick 129: Xavier Scott, CB, Illinois
Another versatile player who would fit on the roster to take on multiple roles in the defensive secondary, Xavier Scott elevated his draft stock by returning for this past college season. He's known for being a playmaker who excels in tackling and could be a value pick to contribute on both defense and special teams.
Round 5, Pick 163: Jalon Kilgore, CB, South Carolina
At 6'1, Jalon Kilgore could be play a hybrid defensive back position that also finds some time at the linebacker position, who has great athleticism. His long arms and physicality is a theme for what the Bears could need in their secondary, which could be the biggest area of weakness depending on who decides to move on this offseason.
Round 7, Pick 239: Jakari Foster, S, Louisiana Tech
One of the most underrated players in this year's draft, Jakari Foster lead the NCAA in interceptions this year and is the pure definition of a ballhawk. Foster may have to work to find his place on the field, but as was seen in the 2025 season, if a palyer is ready to play and rising to the occasion, they'll be on the field. Foster could also be a big contributor on special teams.
Round 7, Pick 241: Riley Mahlman, OT, Wisconsin
Back to the Big 10 for another opportunity to find reinforcements for the offensive line. A very big unit at 6'8", 320-pounds, Riley Mahlman has size and strength that can't be taught, but he'll definitely be a work in progress that Ben Johnson could have fun with. Mahlman projects at right tackle which would be great insurance behind Darnell Wright.
This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears 7-round mock draft: Chicago addresses massive needs on defense