Chicago Bears’ Draft Strategy: A Shift Towards Safety?
If you follow the NFL draft process, you’ve likely noticed a recurring pattern: initial expectations often diverge from the actual draft strategy. For the Chicago Bears, this dynamic played out last year. For months, the focus was on bolstering the offensive line or adding a pass rusher. However, in the weeks leading up to the draft, tight end emerged as a prominent possibility. The Bears selected Colston Loveland with the 10th overall pick.
The Emerging Safety Trend
That same pattern appears to be unfolding again. While edge rushers and defensive tackles have been widely projected as potential picks for the Bears, a recent position is gaining traction: safety. Chicago Tribune insider Brad Biggs highlighted Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman as a potential target at pick #25.
25. Chicago Bears: Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
Edge rusher looms as the greatest need, and Zion Young would be a really interesting fit for defensive coordinator Dennis Allen if he’s available. If not, Thieneman is very intriguing if available as the Bears would have a dynamic young player to pair with Coby Bryant.
NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah echoes this sentiment, suggesting Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren as another possibility.
25. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren
Toledo · S · Senior
McNeil-Warren has the size, length and playmaking ability to fill the void left by Jaquan Brisker — in fact, I believe EMW would be an upgrade at the position.
Why the Shift?
This shift isn’t arbitrary. Both Biggs and Jeremiah have demonstrated accuracy in predicting the Bears’ draft inclinations. Biggs correctly identified Loveland as a target in 2025, and Jeremiah accurately predicted a tight end selection (albeit Tyler Warren) last year. Their current focus on safety suggests a genuine change in the team’s thinking, driven by information gathered from league sources.
The Bears’ free agency moves further support this idea. The largest contract awarded in free agency went to a safety, signaling a clear priority to upgrade that position. With one starting safety spot still open, and a highly-regarded safety class available, the Bears may be poised to address the need in the first round.
A Break from Tradition?
The Bears haven’t drafted a safety in the first round since 1990, selecting Mark Carrier with the 6th overall pick. They’ve historically favored finding quality safeties in later rounds, successfully drafting players like Mike Brown, Adrian Amos, Eddie Jackson, and Jaquan Brisker outside the first round.
However, the current draft class may present an exception. Prospects like Thieneman and McNeil-Warren have drawn comparisons to established stars like Kyle Hamilton and Cooper DeJean, and James, respectively. If the Bears believe one of these players possesses the rare traits to significantly impact their defense, they may be willing to break with tradition.
Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen’s scheme also favors aggressive safeties, making a high-impact player at that position particularly valuable.
| Rank | Player | Team | Blitzes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | Jaquan Brisker | Chicago Bears | 71 |
| 10 | C.J. Gardner-Johnson | Philadelphia Eagles | 50 |
What This Means for the Bears
If the top edge rushers and defensive tackles aren’t available at pick #25, selecting a safety is a logical and potentially impactful move. The Bears have demonstrated a willingness to invest in the position, and the current draft class offers promising prospects. This shift in strategy reflects a team that is adapting to the evolving draft landscape and prioritizing the best available player to fit their needs.
FAQ
Q: Why are the Bears considering a safety in the first round?
A: The Bears have a need at safety, a strong safety class is available, and team insiders are suggesting it as a likely pick.
Q: Has the Bears’ draft strategy changed recently?
A: Yes, the initial focus on offensive line and pass rush has shifted towards safety in recent weeks.
Q: Who are the top safety prospects the Bears are considering?
A: Dillon Thieneman (Oregon) and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (Toledo) are two names frequently mentioned.
Did you know? The Bears haven’t drafted a safety in the first round in over 30 years.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on pre-draft visits and team interviews. These can provide valuable clues about the Bears’ true intentions.
What are your thoughts on the Bears potentially drafting a safety? Share your opinions in the comments below!
