NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah predicts the Bears could address the safety position in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, projecting No. 25 to Dillion Thieneman. He notes Thieneman’s versatility could allow him to play both safety spots and even cover in the slot if needed.
Thieneman, a versatile defensive back who developed at Purdue and Oregon, is praised for high-IQ coverage instincts and a strong work ethic. In college, he logged 306 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, eight interceptions, 14 pass deflections and two forced fumbles across 39 games, showing ability to play deep safety, provide run support and line up in nickel packages.
Beyond Byard and Brisker, the Bears’ 2026 safety room also includes veterans C.J. Gardner-J Johnson and Jonathan Owens, plus Elijah Hicks, all set to become free agents on March 11. If Chicago doesn’t re-sign them, the team would enter 2026 with Gervarrius Owens as the lone remaining safety under contract.
Cap space adds another layer of complexity. Over the Cap projects roughly $17.3 million in cap space must be cleared before March 11 to get back in the black, with additional room typically needed for draft picks and other expenses, limiting how many safeties can be retained.
Even if Thieneman isn’t the Bears’ first-round pick, Chicago is likely to overhaul its safety room in 2026, with draft emphasis potentially landing a starter in the first round or on Day 2. Jeremiah’s projection underscores the market and strategy may hinge on the team’s flexibility under the salary cap.
The report, originally published by Heavy Sports, suggests the Bears will pursue a notable upgrade at safety in 2026, a move that could reshape the defensive backbone alongside questions at other positions.
