Chicago Bears: Coby Bryant reveals the ‘bad thing’ about Dillon Thieneman

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Chicago Bears: Coby Bryant reveals the ‘bad thing’ about Dillon Thieneman

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated May 27, 2026 9:10 AM ET

Coby Bryant and Dillon Thieneman will form a new safety duo for the 2026 season with the Chicago Bears. The team lost four of its top safeties this offseason as Kevin Byard III, Jonathan Owens, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson and Jaquan Brisker signed with new teams.

Ben Johnson and his coaching staff expect Bryant and Thieneman to play huge roles in delaying opposing quarterbacks’ passes. It will help the D-line generate more QB pressures and force more sacks.

Bryant is coming off a Super Bowl-winning season with the Seattle Seahawks and brings championship experience to the table. Meanwhile, the team drafted Thieneman at No. 25 following a strong run with the Oregon Ducks.

Their coverage on opposite sides will be crucial for Caleb Williams and his offense to gain more scoring opportunities. The O-line ranked No. 3 in the NFL last season, guiding the Bears to win the NFC North and reach the Divisional Round.

New Chicago Bears safety Dillon Thieneman during the NFL Draft prospects clinic at Hazelwood Green Park.

Chicago Bears’ Coby Bryant shares early thoughts on Dillon Thieneman

On Tuesday, Bryant shared how his first few interactions with Thieneman went. The veteran also highlighted his eagerness to share the field with the rookie. The veteran safety also singled out one “bad thing” about the rookie, which, according to Bryant, is also good.

“Yeah, just watching the film on him,” Bryant said on “The Insiders.” “Obviously, him coming out, he’s a great player, but right now he’s a rookie, so he’s not really saying too much, which is a good and a bad thing too.

“But I’m excited to be able to play with him, and I know he’s going to help this team tremendously. We look forward to playing together for sure.”

Thieneman appears to be holding back in terms of being vocal on and off the field. As Bryant said, this can be both good and bad, but it all comes with the territory for a rookie still trying to find his place with the squad.

Bryant will likely mentor Thieneman and make his transition to the NFL easier. Learning from a Super Bowl champion who is just entering his fifth pro season will speed up the 21-year-old’s development.

The duo’s addition plugged the hole at the position, and their production could determine how far the team will reach next season.

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

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