As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Chicago Bears are eyeing some intriguing prospects to bolster their defense. One name that’s been buzzing around is Texas A&M’s edge rusher, Cashius Howell.
Known for his explosive play and aggressive style, Howell seems like a perfect fit for Dennis Allen’s squad. However, there’s a chance he might be off the board before the Bears get their shot at pick number 25.
If Howell slips through their fingers, the Bears have options. Trading up is always on the table, but with a draft class rich in pass-rushing talent, Day 2 could be where Chicago strikes gold. Let’s dive into some promising prospects who could make a big impact.
Gabe Jacas, Illinois
First up, Gabe Jacas from Illinois. If Howell isn’t available, Jacas brings a similar skill set and wouldn’t have to travel far to join the Bears.
At 6-foot-4 and 260 pounds, Jacas embodies physicality. He’s the kind of edge defender who thrives on contact, using his strength and core stability to dominate.
With 50 collegiate games under his belt and a captain’s patch to show for it, Jacas is as NFL-ready as they come. His impressive stats-19 sacks, 26 tackles for loss, and six forced fumbles in the last two seasons-highlight his knack for creating turnovers, a trait the Bears highly value.
While his quickness might not be elite, his other attributes more than compensate, making him a standout candidate for Chicago.
Malachi Lawrence, UCF
Switching gears, UCF’s Malachi Lawrence offers a different flavor. Known for his quick feet and explosive burst, Lawrence is a nightmare for offensive linemen. His rapid get-off and versatile pass rush moves keep opponents guessing.
Describing Lawrence in one word? Explosive.
His motor runs hot, whether he's bursting off the line or closing in on a mobile quarterback. Leave him unblocked, and even the likes of Lamar Jackson might find themselves in trouble.
Lawrence’s ever-changing arsenal of moves makes him a dynamic threat, ensuring offensive linemen are always on their toes.
Romello Height, Texas Tech
Lastly, we have Romello Height from Texas Tech. Slightly undersized at 6-foot-3 and 239 pounds, Height might be a Round 3 gem. What he lacks in size, he makes up for with speed and fluidity, making him a unique challenge for blockers.
Height’s game is all about smooth movement and relentless pursuit. His ability to keep his legs churning and hands active allows him to compensate for his smaller frame, making him a compelling option on Day 2.
In conclusion, while Cashius Howell is a tempting target, the Bears have a wealth of talent to consider in the later rounds. Whether it’s the physical prowess of Jacas, the explosive energy of Lawrence, or the smooth athleticism of Height, Chicago has the chance to add a game-changer to their defense.