The Chicago Bears will have options in the 2026 NFL Draft, but what will make or break their draft is what they do on Day 2.
They have three selections to pick from, with two in the second round and one in the third. Their interesting decision will come in the third round, and what they decide to do with that selection.
One conversation about the draft was about the centers and where they could be landing. ESPN NFL Draft expert Jordan Reid shared his thoughts on Kansas State center Sam Hecht and his potential landing spot in the draft.
"Love him to the Bears in Round 3. Perfect fit."
Love him to the Bears in Round 3. Perfect fit.
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) April 14, 2026
Could Sam Hecht be a Chicago Bear when all is said and done?
Hecht was a second-team All-Big 12 selection last year for the Wildcats and again in 2024. Pro Football Focus gave Hecht an 80.3 overall grade, ranking him fourth out of 307 centers last season as he allowed seven pressures, zero quarterback hits, and zero sacks in 392 pass blocking snaps with zero penalties committed.
The Bears have been big fans of Hecht during the pre-draft process, including at his Pro Day, where they scouted him out. The offensive line is a key part of the Bears' draft evaluation as they look for potential future options at center and could be targeting a left tackle for this season, with Ozzy Trapilo injured and expected to miss a good portion of the year.
Chicago dealt with some drama at the center position, with Drew Dalman retiring and, a few days later, trading for Garrett Bradbury from the New England Patriots. While Bradbury could be the future at the position, some think they need a longer-term solution after 2026.
Read more: Bears are hosting versatile draft prospect that would give Dennis Allen his dream DB
Hecht is one of the best centers in the draft and would be a solid Day 2 option for the Bears if they went that route.
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