Bears’ sleeper draft pick could threaten the starter’s job ($6.5M).

The Chicago Bears’ 2026 NFL draft is highlighted by value at cornerback depth, particularly with Malik Muhammad selected as a Day 3 sleeper who could push for a starting role. While the team faced criticism for not upgrading the defensive line, analysts praised Chicago’s draft class overall, with Muhammad ranked as a standout bargain at No. 124 in Round 4 and recognized as a potential immediate contributor due to the Bears’ thin outside corner depth behind Jaylon Johnson and Tyrique Stevenson.

Tyrique Stevenson’s 2025 season is noted as slightly above average, but he heads into the final year of his rookie deal and could be challenged by Muhammad for a starting spot. Stevenson showed solid run defense but middling coverage metrics in 2025, making Muhammad’s potential impact more significant as depth and competition for starting duties intensifies. Pre-draft evaluations from experts project Muhammad as a possible NFL starter with starting potential, praising his length, coverage ability, and athletic traits, while acknowledging areas to refine such as turnover creation and consistency against faster receivers.

Key takeaways:
– Malik Muhammad is viewed as a valuable Day 3 pick with starting potential and immediate depth at cornerback.
– The Bears prioritized depth at cornerback to complement an unsettled outside CB situation beyond Johnson and Stevenson.
– Tyrique Stevenson posted above-average numbers in 2025 but may face competition from Muhammad for a starting role, given Muhammad’s upside and the Bears’ draft strategy.