While the Chicago Bears front office is taking a breather after a long weekend of the 2026 NFL Draft, there might be some anxiety from players on the roster.
The Bears made several selections, with a mix of offense and defense. It was clear, though, that general manager Ryan Poles was going for whoever he felt was the best player available.
Players on the active roster might feel differently, as some selections spoke louder than others. Here are four players on the Bears who might have indirectly gotten a message about their futures.
4 Bears players who received indirect messages from 2026 NFL Draft
JP Richardson, WR
The Bears selected LSU wide receiver Zavion Thomas in the third round, as he brings some much-needed speed to the offense and special teams. That's double trouble for Richardson, who is also trying to make the team based on his play on offense and special teams. It feels as though he might have to accept that a practice squad spot might be the best he can do.
Stephen Carlson, TE
Chicago fans thought they were solid at tight end and assumed that Carlson felt the same way, as the clear-cut third string on the depth chart. That was until Stanford tight end Sam Roush was selected in the third round, giving the Bears their blocking tight end. It's only bad news for Carlson if the Bears don't trade Cole Kmet away.
Kentavius Street, DT
Street was just added to the team in the offseason through free agency to help with the depth of the defensive tackle position. Chicago decided to select Georgia Tech defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg, leaving Street with the option of being kicked to the curb at training camp if he isn't perfect on the field. With Neville Gallimore and James Lynch also fighting for rotational time, Street is in danger of losing his job quickly.
Read more: Bears' way-too-early 2027 mock draft rights the wrongs of Ryan Poles' mishaps
Tyrique Stevenson, CB
This was no doubt the loudest message sent, as Stevenson is already on the hot seat with the coaching staff after being reduced to a benchwarmer at the end of last year. Nahshon Wright's departure gave Stevenson hope he could return to his job, but the Bears selected Texas cornerback Malik Muhammad in the fourth round. Muhammad's arrival only means that if Stevenson doesn't play better, he might be out after 2026.
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