Chicago Bears keeping tabs on speedy wide receiver

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Zack Pearson | Last updated Mar 31, 2026 11:52 PM ET

By now we know what the positions of need are for the Chicago Bears entering the 2026 NFL Draft. Most of those needs are on the defensive side of the football in terms of defensive tackle, an edge rusher and safety. But on the offensive side of the ball, the biggest one that stands out is left tackle.

It remains to be seen if the Bears address that issue or not. They have been doing their homework however.

Leading into the draft, the Bears are keeping an eye on several prospects. They are even looking at a position that may not be the biggest need but could have value on day two or day three.

The latest player to reveal he has a top 30 visit with Chicago is speedy Ole Miss receiver De’Zhaun Stribling.

Chicago Bears meeting with speedy receiver De’Zhaun Stribling

Jan 8, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Mississippi Rebels wide receiver De’zhaun Stribling (1) makes a catch against the Miami Hurricanes in the second half during the 2026 Fiesta Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

The 6-foot-2 wide receiver enters the draft after recording back-to-back 800-plus yard receiving seasons. He was a good receiver for the Rebels, helping them make a push in the College Football Player. The best part? He has speed which is something the Bears can add to this offense.

In a recent interview with Justin Melo of Sports Illustrated, he breaks down the interviews he’s had so far:

I had formal interviews at the NFL Combine with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Seattle Seahawks, and Los Angeles Rams. I’ve had a ton of virtual meetings, I’ve met with a lot of teams virtually, like the Seahawks, Washington Commanders, Carolina Panthers, and Tennessee Titans, earlier this week.

In person, I am going to visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Chicago Bears, and New England Patriots.

Stribling is one of the known 30 visits for the Bears so far and the only wide receiver on the list currently. Chicago could look to add a speedy receiver like Stribling to the offense for more firepower, especially after they lost DJ Moore.

He also talked about his game and what makes him special.

My versatility is going to bring a lot to an NFL offense. I can play any receiver spot. That’s going to make me a huge asset. My speed, especially when I have the ball in my hands, makes me a threat in the open field.

I think my overall physicality goes a long way. I can block at a high level. My football IQ is off the charts. I’ve played in multiple offenses at different programs. I learned every playbook very quickly and was able to contribute.

Blocking? That is right up Ben Johnson’s alley.

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

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