The Chicago Bears had a successful season in 2025. Under first-year head coach Ben Johnson, they went from 5-12 in 2024 to 11-6 and NFC North division champions. What is more, they split the season series 1-1 against the Green Bay Packers and knocked them out of the NFL Playoffs.
For all the success, though, Chicago had its weaknesses. Like all other NFL teams, they must decide whether they will address these weaknesses in free agency, the NFL Draft, or both.
Chicago Bears encouraged to take Clemson star TJ Parker in the 2026 NFL Draft
Dec 21, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive end T.J. Parker (3) in action during the game between the Texas Longhorns and the Clemson Tigers in the CFP National Playoff First Round at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
One of the areas in which the Bears struggled the most was on the defensive line. As a whole, the defense ranked 29th in yards allowed per game with 361.8, and 27th in rushing yards allowed per game with 134.5.
As such, they need to address their defensive line, and PFF believes they can do so by selecting TJ Parker of Clemson in the 2026 NFL Draft:
“The Bears were one of the pleasant surprises of the 2025 season, 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.”
In 2025, Parker had 9.5 tackles for loss and 5.0 sacks. However, he was better in 2024 when he had 19.5 tackles for loss and 11.0 sacks (he also led the SEC with six forced fumbles).
On the drop in production, one NFC scouting director said, “He had better numbers in 2024 but also he just played better. I felt like he saw more attention (in 2025) and didn’t always respond well.”
Obviously, Parker needs a bit more development, but he could also benefit from playing alongside Montez Sweat, who will attract more attention than him.
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