Overview
- Chicago filled its starting safety need by taking Dillon Thieneman with the 25th pick after he slid past several teams that had been linked to him.
- Scouting reports highlight his clean tackling, strong coverage skills and hybrid versatility, and he says he studies Hall of Famer Troy Polamalu.
- ESPN's Matt Miller ranked the selection as the 11th-best pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, citing the fit and unexpected availability at No. 25.
- The rookie joins free-agent addition Coby Bryant, giving defensive coordinator Dennis Allen more ways to mix coverages and personnel.
- With no edge rusher taken in the draft, Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer reported the Bears could look at veterans like Cameron Jordan or Jadeveon Clowney in free agency.