With picks at No. 69 and No. 89, the Bears elected Stanford tight end Sam Roush and LSU wide receiver Zavion Thomas, choices that leaned toward offensive weapons for head coach Ben Johnson rather than defensive depth. Roush’s selection surprised many given Colston Loveland and Cole Kmet’s status as likely top tight ends, while Thomas was viewed by many scouts as a later Day 3 talent.
As Day 3 began, Chicago faced remaining needs across the defense, particularly along the defensive line, while holding a fourth-round pick (No. 129), a fifth-round pick (No. 144), and two seventh-round picks (Nos. 239 and 241). Analysts outlined several fits who could still help shore up the defense and contribute immediately or develop behind the NFL-ready players on the roster.
Among the notable Day 3 prospects mentioned as potential fits for the Bears were edge players Dani Dennis-Sutton of Penn State and Anthony Lucas of USC, defensive tackles Gracen Halton of Oklahoma and Kaleb Proctor of SE Louisiana, and offensive-tackle Travis Burke of Memphis. Each option offered a blend of size, versatility, and developmental potential that could address Chicago’s sustained need on the defensive front or provide valuable depth along the line.
Overall, Chicago’s Day 3 strategy centers on balancing immediate needs with long-term development, weighing prospects who can contribute in pressuring the quarterback or anchoring the interior, while continuing to evaluate depth across the defensive trenches. The Bears will head into the final rounds with multiple opportunities to reinforce their defense and add swing-tackle versatility on the offensive line.
