The Chicago Bears have taken the first steps to building a powerhouse in the NFC. They have their franchise quarterback and a coach who can build an elite offense. But they still need to fill out a defense capable of winning games when it matters. The Bears had far too many close games last season, due partially to their difficulty getting stops in key moments.
General manager Ryan Poles and defensive coordinator Dennis Allen have set out to fix that issue this offseason. So far, they've focused on adding depth pieces across the defense. But the unit still needs a few starters before the season kicks off.
The NFL Draft provides the Bears with the perfect opportunity to complete their defensive remodel. If they nail their picks at the top of the draft, they could be set for another step forward in 2026. Eric Edholm of NFL.com just laid out the perfect plan for Chicago. In a recent article, he claimed that Clemson edge rusher T.J. Parker and LSU safety A.J. Haulcy are Chicago's ideal picks in the first two rounds.
Bears' ideal draft haul couldn't be clearer
It would be hard to argue with the process if the Bears came away with these players in the first two rounds of the draft. Edholm explained just how perfect this haul would be, saying, "I know there has been a lot of Zion Young buzz in this spot, and that’s who I gave Chicago in my last mock, but I am starting to think Parker is a bit of a better fit. He has slightly more power and athletic juice than Young and is a more naturally gifted pass rusher. The Bears really could use another safety, and Haulcy gives them the type of takeaway specialist they’re seeking. He’d eventually be an upgrade over what departed free agent Jaquan Brisker was giving them."
If there's a complaint to be made here, it's that Parker doesn't have the dominant pass-rush ability that Bears fans are hoping for in an edge rusher. In reality, Chicago isn't going to find a true pass-rush ace at the end of the first round without sacrificing in other areas.
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Still, the Clemson defender would be an immediate starter opposite Montez Sweat, giving the Bears a solid edge duo for years to come. With Haulcy locking down the back of the defense, Chicago would have the beginnings of a dangerous unit.