Why the Bears Two Defensive Edge Rushers Must Step Up in 2026
The 2026 NFL Draft has concluded, and the Chicago Bears ended with a polarizing performance. The Bears would fill holes at certain positions, like safety, with their first-round draft pick, while also deciding to draft more depth for the offense. Most fans believed the biggest need for Chicago was at the pass rusher position, but the team didn’t draft any sort of defensive end until the sixth round with their final pick. Georgia Tech defensive tackle Jordan van den Berg went to Chicago, their newest addition to the line, who will more than likely be used for depth. There are still plenty of questions surrounding the defensive line, which struggled last season to attack the quarterback and wasn’t upgraded or addressed this offseason. Defensive end Montez Sweat will carry his side of the line in 2026, but the players across from him will need to have a huge leap.
Defensive ends Dayo Odeyingbo and Austin Booker will compete at this position during training camp this year, with the winner needing to fill a major weakness in the defense. Odeyingbo was sidelined for most of 2025 but was expected to return much more motivated and at full health. As for Booker, he’s expected to have one of the biggest improvements from last year, after spending two years now in the league. He currently sits behind Odeyingbo in the depth chart, but will have the opportunity to take the position in training camp. Both defensive ends will have the biggest spotlight before the season begins, as the Bears have essentially filled every other position on the team. The team did not have a single player ranked in the top nine for pass rush win rate among edge rushers last season, and will look to add someone this year. While the team can put all their focus into Odeyingbo and Booker, if they need a backup plan during the season, they may have an option.
As the 2026 season progresses, defensive end Maxx Crosby will continue to be a name to monitor. Crosby was originally traded to the Baltimore Ravens this offseason, but shockingly, the trade was canceled. The five-time Pro Bowler now remains on the Las Vegas Raiders, who could potentially look to finalize a trade before the trade deadline hits during the year. Crosby and the Bears have been a conversation all offseason, with the potential to bring him to the team if Chicago is still struggling to attack the quarterback during the season. The position will be one to continue to monitor, as for now, Odeyingbo and Booker will have a major opportunity.
