As the dust settles on free agency, the Chicago Bears are turning their attention to the 2026 NFL Draft. With a revamped offense from last year, it's time to focus on defense.
General Manager Ryan Poles is on the hunt for game-changers, particularly up front, after the team finished 29th in the league last season. His recent scouting trips suggest a clear defensive focus.
Poles kicked off his scouting tour at Oklahoma, checking out defensive linemen Gracen Halton and R Mason Thomas. He then headed to Miami to observe edge rushers Rueben Bain and Akheem Mesidor.
But things took an unexpected turn when he showed up at Alabama’s pro day, a school not known for a strong defensive class this year. Instead, the spotlight was on their offensive linemen, especially left tackle Kadyn Proctor.
Bears representatives, including Poles, were seen closely monitoring the offensive line drills alongside teams like the Saints, Vikings, Bengals, and Jets. This suggests that the Bears might not be done addressing the left tackle position.
Proctor isn’t the only player on the Bears' radar. Reports indicate interest in wide receiver Germie Bernard, defensive end LT Overton, and center Parker Brailsford.
However, these players aren't expected to be first-round picks. Proctor, on the other hand, fits the bill for Chicago's 25th overall pick.
Standing at 6'7" and 352 lbs, Proctor is an imposing figure with the traits to match-long arms and significant power. His athleticism, however, is what’s turning heads.
Among tackles weighing 350 lbs or more since 1999, only one has clocked a faster 40-yard dash than Proctor’s 5.21 seconds. While he’s not the most graceful, he moves impressively for his size.
Bears head coach Ben Johnson values size in offensive tackles. Last year, the team drafted the 6'8", 316 lbs Ozzy Trapilo, and Johnson previously coached the 6'5", 331 lbs Penei Sewell in Detroit.
Proctor’s size and mobility make him a potential asset for the Bears’ run-heavy offense. His performance in pass protection against SEC competition has been solid.
The big question is whether Proctor will still be available at pick #25. With offensive tackle being a thin position this year, demand is high, and several teams ahead of Chicago could snap him up despite concerns about his weight. Nonetheless, Poles is smart to keep his options open, assessing all potential targets during his Alabama visit.