There are several options for the Chicago Bears to go in the 2026 NFL Draft, but one position might surprise some with which direction they might go.
Most of the attention has been on the defense, with spots like edge rusher and safety needing new starters. 104.3 The Score's Chris Emma wrote a profile piece on Notre Dame running back Jadarian Price and suggested that he might be a solid second-round selection for Chicago.
"The Bears enter this NFL Draft with considerable needs, specifically on defense. That's the priority, but there’s also an understated need to improve at running back. D’Andre Swift is entering the final year of his contract. Kyle Monangai, a seventh-round pick in 2025, flashed his upside with a tough running style and five touchdowns as a rookie.
As the Bears look to their future, they don’t have certainty at running back. Perhaps Price is the prospect who fits for Chicago. Price could be available when the Bears are on the clock with picks Nos. 57 and 60 late in the second round. If he did join the Bears, he would be a versatile weapon for head coach Ben Johnson to use for years to come."
Could Bears really be interested in Jadarian Price?
Price had a solid three seasons with the Fighting Irish, but was constantly overshadowed by Jeremiyah Love, who is considered to be the best running back in this year's NFL Draft. Price still put up good numbers as he rushed for 1,692 yards and 21 touchdowns, averaging six yards per carry in his career.
There have been a lot of questions about Swift's future with the team, as he has been a candidate to be cut or traded before the draft to save cap space. Even if he doesn't get moved, he's in the final year of his contract with the team and has a good chance of not returning.
Monangai was a pleasant surprise last season, rushing for 783 yards and five touchdowns as a rookie. He's considered to be the future of the backfield, but could use a good partner to work with, similar to how good he and Swift were in 2025.
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Price seems to have the whole package and can do everything the Bears would need him to in pass protection and running the football. Picking him in the second round would be a bold move, but not completely crazy to do.