Bears Draft Blocking TE Sam Roush at No. 69 to Extend Multi‑TE Offense
The move deepens a run‑heavy package without changing Cole Kmet’s role.
Overview
- Chicago selected Stanford tight end Sam Roush with the 69th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to add a physical in‑line blocker.
- He slots behind Colston Loveland and Cole Kmet to support Chicago’s frequent two‑ and three‑tight end packages.
- Windy City Gridiron reports Roush effectively replaces Durham Smythe as the third tight end this season with little immediate impact on Kmet.
- Roush is 6‑foot‑6 and 267 pounds, posted strong athletic testing including a high Relative Athletic Score, and drew praise for finishing blocks.
- Scouts flagged limited college production and a 12.5% drop rate in 2025, leading some analysts to question using a third‑round pick at a lower‑priority need.