Chicago Bears’ blueprint to fix glaring weakness revealed

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Matt Lombardo | Last updated Feb 2, 2026 10:22 PM ET

This is going to be a pivotal offseason for general manager Ryan Poles and the Chicago Bears.

One year removed from an overhaul along the offensive line that helped cut Caleb Williams’ sacks from 68 as a rookie to 24 in 2025 while quickly launching the second-year quarterback’s development, and an infusion of youthful offensive playmakers during the NFL Draft, Poles and Chicago could be about to replicate the building process on defense.

Chicago Bears’ defensive line blueprint coming into shape?

NFL: Chicago Bears Rookie Minicamp Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen (L), general manager Ryan Poles (C) and head coach Ben Johnson (R) observe during the Rookie Minicamp at Halas Hall. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

With the East-West Shrine Game and Senior Bowl both in the rearview mirror, and the NFL Combine, free agency, and April’s NFL Draft looming large, Poles and the Bears could turn the focus to the defensive line in the weeks and months ahead.

Over at Pro Football Focus, analyst Ryan Smith argues that the Bears’ best course of action to improve the front-seven, is to focus on it during the draft.

“The Bears were one of the pleasant surprises of the 2025 season,” Smith points out. “Winning the NFC North and a playoff game in the wild-card round against the Packers. For Chicago to take the next step and compete for a Super Bowl, addressing the defensive line is a must.

“The Bears’ defensive line struggled versus the run (31st-ranked 42.2 PFF run-defense grade) and failed to generate much pressure (25th-ranked 65.4 PFF pass-rush grade). T.J. Parker could make a difference in both areas, as he graded above 78.0 as both a pass rusher and a run defender this season. He would be a natural plug-and-play fit in Dennis Allen’s defense.”

Smith suggests that T.J. Parker could be a top target, who could instantly elevate the Bears’ defensive line.

Last season, the Clemson product posted five sacks and 37 total tackles, and could be an instant contributor in Allen’s scheme.

It would make sense for the Bears to prioritize the front-seven during the NFL Draft, especially given the cap constraints that Poles could be working with, expected to enter the offseason approximately $10.8 million over the cap.

If Carter is on the board when the Bears go on the clock, he could be too ideal a fit for Chicago to pass up.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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