The 2026 NFL Draft is fast approaching, and the Chicago Bears are gearing up for a critical period after losing multiple key contributors in free agency. With the draft just around the corner, it's time to take a closer look at Aaron Leming's mock draft and see how he fills out the Bears' roster. In this article, I'll provide my own analysis and commentary on Leming's picks, offering a fresh perspective on the team's potential moves.
A Reach for the Edge
Leming's first-round pick, DE Malachi Lawrence from UCF, is a bit of a reach, in my opinion. While Lawrence has the physical traits and on-field traits that could meet Dennis Allen's needs, I'm not convinced he's a first-round talent. Every year, we see players projected as mid-second-round picks go late in the first round, and Lawrence might be one of them. However, with the Bears' need for immediate contributors, they might be willing to take a chance on a player with a higher ceiling than some of the other options available.
A High-Character Safety
In the second round, Leming has the Bears trading up for S Treydan Stukes from Arizona. Although Stukes is on the older side, he's a high-character player with cornerback traits that could translate well into a positional move to safety. The Bears' secondary is in need of athleticism, and Allen's evaluations in this area are usually spot-on. Stukes' physicality, speed, and versatility make him a strong addition to the team.
A Versatile Defensive Tackle
Leming's next pick is DT Gracen Halton from Oklahoma, who is traded for a late third-round pick and a fourth-round pick in 2027. While this might be viewed as a little 'too soon' for Halton, he should make an immediate impact as a rotational three-technique. The Bears' defense is in need of depth, and Halton's versatility and ability to fit Allen's scheme make him a strong addition.
A Speedster Receiver
In the third round, Leming has the Bears selecting WR De'Zhaun Stribling from Ole Miss. Stribling is a player who might never become a well-rounded receiver, but he brings a speed element that the Bears currently lack. With Ben Johnson's history of getting his 'guys' on the team, I wouldn't be surprised to see Stribling as one of them, even if the receiver position isn't an immediate need.
A Center with Upside
Leming's next pick is iOL/C Brian Parker II from Duke, who is traded for a much-needed additional third-round selection. With Drew Dalman's retirement, the center position is a huge question mark for the Bears. Parker is converting from tackle, but his best position at the NFL level is likely to be at center. The Bears should have plenty of options here, but they might as well bet on upside since they have some time to develop their long-term solution.
A Sneaky Cornerback Need
In the fourth round, Leming has the Bears selecting CB Tacario Davis from Florida. While some might not view cornerback as an immediate need, the Bears' poor health last season and Stevenson heading into the final year of his rookie deal make this a sneaky need that could surface sooner than next season. Davis fits the exact mold that Allen typically covets in cornerbacks, and he would provide immediate competition for Stevenson.
A Versatile Linebacker
Leming's next pick is LB Jimmy Rolder from Michigan, who is selected in the fifth round. Since the departure of Roquan Smith, the linebacker position has seen two well-paid players, but their production has never really matched. Rolder is someone who is just scratching the surface of what he can do, and with a year to sit back and develop, he could be ready to take over a starting spot in 2027.
A Character-Questioned Running Back
In the seventh round, Leming has the Bears selecting RB Seth McGowan from Kentucky. McGowan is on the older side, but the mileage isn't super high considering his path back to a Power Five team following his dismissal from Oklahoma. While I still have my doubts about McGowan's character, the Bears' need for a reliable running back might make them willing to take a chance on him.
A Pass-Catching Tight End
Leming's final pick is TE Josh Cuavas from Alabama, who is selected in the seventh round. Cuavas has some upside as a pass-catcher, and with Cole Kmet's contract still untouched, it's worth wondering what his future holds beyond 2026. The Bears need another option at tight end, and Cuavas could provide a little more upside in the back half of the room.
In conclusion, Leming's mock draft for the Bears is an interesting one, with a mix of reaches and solid picks. While some of the picks might be a bit of a stretch, the Bears' need for immediate contributors and depth makes them willing to take chances. As for my own thoughts, I'd be curious to see how the Bears' front office and coaching staff would approach these picks and how they would fit into the team's overall strategy. From my perspective, the Bears' draft class has the potential to be a strong one, but it will ultimately depend on how well the players develop and perform on the field.
