The NFL Combine is set to begin, and the Chicago Bears will be looking to replicate their success from last year by finding the next batch of rookie starters.
Chicago hit so many home runs in the 2025 NFL Draft with selections like Colston Loveland, Luther Bruden, Ozzy Trapilo, and Kyle Monangai. The Bears hope they can have the same success as they face an offseason with not much cap space to work with and need to lean on the draft to find starters.
Going into the combine, the Bears will be focused on positions like edge rusher, safety, cornerback, and defensive tackle. There is a prospect in this draft that would make sense as their top target for the draft and one that fix a past mistake.
Bears' one dream draft prospect in 2026 NFL Draft
Bleacher Report writer Gary Davenport named a dream draft target for each of the NFL teams. Davenport identified the Bears as Georgia defensive tackle Christen Miller.
"The Bears could use help at just about every position group on that side of the ball, from edge-rusher to safety. It wouldn't be a stunner to see an edge-rusher or linebacker be the team's first choice at No. 25, but they could circle back in Round 2 and improve the middle of the defensive front with a player such as Georgia defensive tackle Christen Miller.
Miller's numbers weren't great in college, and at 6'4" and 310 pounds, he's a bit undersized to play nose tackle. But he has an intriguing blend of speed and athleticism and has played all over the defensive front.
After a disappointing 2025 from tackle Grady Jarrett, Miller would be a welcome addition—especially after the Jarrett signing produced less-than-ideal results last year."
Miller had 23 tackles, four tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks with the Bulldogs last season. While he isn't known as an elite pass rusher, he is a great run stopper who can help the Bears after being one of the worst in the NFL last season, ranking 27th with 134.5 rushing yards allowed per game.
Chicago was highly disappointed with its defensive line's performance, especially that of veteran defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, who signed a three-year contract with the Bears last offseason. Jarrett didn't really do much on the line and struggled early in the season to stay healthy.
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Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen would have a nice defensive tackle to develop over the next two years, and they wouldn't have to use a first-round pick on Miller since he is projected to go on Day 2. Jarrett has turned into an expensive headache, but Miller is the Advil this Bears defense needs right now.