Focus on a rising linebacker:
– The Bears have already shown serious interest in UTSA linebacker Shad Banks Jr., meeting with him at the American Bowl for a second time. Chicago is among several teams that have kept Banks in the loop multiple times 🏈.
– Banks is a speedy, inside-the-box defender who could bring elite speed, coverage, and blitzing to the Bears. At 6’1″, 230 pounds, he ran a 4.4-second 40 and brings athleticism from his past as a Junior U.S. Olympic triple-jump champion 🔥.
– In 2025, Banks totaled 57 tackles, 3 interceptions, 2 sacks, and 1 forced fumble across 13 games for UTSA, showing playmaking ability and ball-tracking coverage. He’s viewed as a late-day pick (Round 6-7), which could place him on Chicago’s radar at Nos. 239 or 241, or possibly via a mid-to-late move up if teams escalate their interest 📊.
Where Banks might fit in:
– With the early focus at No. 25 on the best available pass-rusher or defensive tackle, Banks could still pop into the mix in the late rounds if the Bears decide to add more speed and depth behind their starting linebackers.
– Chicago may consider using late-round assets to maneuver into the sixth round or dipping into a mid-five to secure Banks, depending on how the board shifts and trades play out ⚡.
Linebacker landscape for 2025:
– Chicago had a strong trio in 2025: TJ Edwards (PFF rating among the top 30 of 89 MLBs), Tremaine Edmunds (top 40), and D’Marco Jackson (No. 13 overall among qualifying linebackers) — a solid foundation to build around 🏈.
– Free agents on the horizon include D’Marco Jackson, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, and Ty Summers, so the Bears will weigh re-signing key pieces versus adding fresh talent to a defense that’s poised to take a step forward 📊.
Key takeaway:
– Chicago is primed to bolster its defense in this draft, exploring a mix of speed-to-coverage linebackers and up-front disruptors. With multiple picks to operate, the Bears could add a dynamic veteran presence or a high-upside rookie who can contribute right away in a defense that’s keen on returning to the postseason scene 🏈🔥.
