The draft isn't at the center of the Chicago Bears' conversations lately. That is a big win for them. It means the team is still relevant in November, which hasn't been the case for years. Still, GM Ryan Poles and his scouts likely have a clear idea of what their priority list should be going into 2026. As of now, if you asked everybody how the draft next year unfolds, you'll likely get consistent answers. Left tackle and edge rusher will be the priorities. Both have been problematic for the Bears this season. Plugging them is a must, especially given their importance.
However, there is a strong possibility the board might be shifting. The Bears got more unwelcome news on defense as key linebacker T.J. Edwards will miss another game this Sunday due to lingering hamstring issues. This is in addition to a broken hand he suffered last week in the win over Cincinnati. Edwards hasn't been healthy most of the season, and his absence has been felt. It reiterates how iffy that position is. Outside of Tremaine Edmunds, the options haven't been great.
That may have to change.
The Chicago Bears must confront reality with Edwards.
While he is still a good player, it is approaching the time when they should start thinking about life after him. The linebacker turns 30 next August. Everybody knows what that age barrier means in this league. The clock starts ticking. If the Chicago Bears are smart, they will start the ball rolling on finding a replacement. That doesn't mean taking one in the 1st or even 2nd round, but it is something they need to think about. It is a mistake they ran into in the early 2010s, failing to prepare for the exits of Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs. Maybe Edwards can still play a few more years, but this recent stretch doesn't offer much hope. Ruben Hyppolite was the first sign that the organization is looking to invest in a youth movement. Next spring might see an uptick in that.
