Three Bears draft picks with make-or-break 2026 seasons coming up

The 2026 season will be a major season for a lot of big names on the Chicago Bears roster. It could change the way we view a lot of players.

There are three players in particular that may have the most on the line this season, though. Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic went through the Bears roster and bucketed all of the players in different groups. He listed three players as potential foundational players, but noted that they are not quite there yet without strong 2026 seasons.

Those names are Austin Booker, Shemar Turner, and Ozzy Trapilo. What are the chances that they break out?

Will these three players make or break for the Chicago Bears in 2026?

Ozzy Trapilo

It is going to be hardest for him as he is coming off a patellar tendon injury. Those can end careers, so his season may be on the line. The good news for Trapilo is that the Bears did not solve left tackle by any means; instead, they threw three or four questionable pieces at it. Trapilo may miss the year and still gain ground, and become a trusted starter next season.

Chance of breakout: 50%

Austin Booker

Booker is the closest to being a trusted starter, but the draft will tell us a story. The best role for Booker may be a third edge rusher. He can come in on obvious pass downs and let loose without fear of the run. Booker is fine against the run in small doses; it is when he is asked to work in that area for the entire game that he gets worn down.

So, whether it be Dayo Odeyingbo or a draft pick pushing him down, it may actually lead to him being more productive and trusted in his role. If he is asked to play more, more warts and even a potential injury may emerge.

Chance of breakout: 75%

Shemar Turner

The interior defensive line room is the weakest on the team. They have a lot of options, but none with long-standing value. Turner tore his ACL but is expected to be back in the lineup before Trapilo, and he should have more say over his role next year. Still, Turner had an awful rookie season before getting hurt, so he has a lot to prove before moving up a tier.