"Edge rusher looms as the greatest need, and Zion Young would be a really interesting fit for defensive coordinator Dennis Allen if he's available. If not, Thieneman is very intriguing if available as the Bears would have a dynamic young player to pair with Coby Bryant."
"This isn't the first time Dillon Thieneman has been on our radar as a possible Bears target in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Back in January, long-time NFL Draft insider Daniel Jeremiah pegged Thieneman to go to Chicago in his first mock draft."
"Seeing multiple insiders come up with the same names is useful information as we try to build out an accurate target list for the Bears based on what reporters in the trenches have to say."
The Chicago Bears face significant defensive needs heading into the 2026 NFL Draft. While defensive line positions like tackle and end appear pressing, Chicago Tribune analyst Brad Biggs projects Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman as the Bears' first-round selection. Biggs suggests Thieneman would pair effectively with cornerback Coby Bryant under defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. This marks the second time Thieneman has been linked to Chicago, following NFL Draft insider Daniel Jeremiah's January projection. Initial fan skepticism shifted following Thieneman's strong NFL Scouting Combine performance. Multiple analysts, including Mel Kiper Jr., have also connected edge rusher Zion Young to the Bears, indicating consensus among draft insiders regarding potential Chicago targets.
Read at Bleacher Nation
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