Best of the Bears: Could Chicago trade back from No. 25 overall in NFL Draft?
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The Mully & Haugh Show dives deep into the Chicago Bears' 2026 NFL Draft strategy, focusing on whether trading back from the No. 25 overall pick could be the smartest move. Hosts Clay and Layla debate the value of depth over early selections, especially given the draft's surplus of talent at defensive line, cornerback, and linebacker—positions the Bears need. They highlight the potential of trading down to accumulate multiple second-round picks, increasing their chances of landing high-upside players like Zion Young, TJ Parker, or Malachi Lawrence. The conversation also explores under-the-radar needs beyond defense, including wide receiver depth and versatile tight ends such as Oscar Delp and Justin Jolie, who could complement Ben Johnson’s offensive vision. The hosts reflect on the cultural shift under Ben Johnson and Ryan Poles, emphasizing player buy-in and organizational synergy. They also critique the NFL draft system, with guest Mike Florio arguing it’s fundamentally unfair to players who have no say in where they’re drafted, calling for a free-market model. The episode closes with a humorous tangent on Dexter Lawrence’s trade request and the absurdity of the Bears’ financial constraints, underscoring the show’s blend of strategic analysis and irreverent commentary.
Trading back from No. 25 could allow the Bears to accumulate multiple second-round picks, increasing their chances of landing high-upside defensive talent.
The 2026 draft is exceptionally deep at defensive line and secondary, making it a prime opportunity to target edge rushers like Zion Young, TJ Parker, and Malachi Lawrence.
Wide receiver and tight end are underrated needs—late-round gems like Oscar Delp and Justin Jolie could thrive in Ben Johnson’s multiple-formation offense.
Ben Johnson’s leadership has transformed team culture, creating player buy-in and accountability that’s rare in the Bears’ recent history.
The NFL draft system is fundamentally flawed, as players have no control over where they’re drafted, and the current model rewards poor teams with top picks.
…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus
The 2026 Draft: A Trade-Heavy Landscape
The episode opens with a preview of the 2026 NFL Draft, highlighting its expected trade activity, especially on the defensive side. The depth in edge, cornerback, and linebacker positions is emphasized, with the Bears at No. 25 positioned to benefit from strategic trading.
Trading Back: The Smart Play for the Bears?
“I think the best scenario in this draft is to trade back and get depth, especially where the Bears are at 25 because I think you need more shots on goal.”
Beyond Defense: Wide Receiver & Tight End Needs
“I'm really intrigued by Jaday Walker specifically because of what we saw with the development. That's part of this, right? You draft and you develop.”
Ben Johnson’s Cultural Revolution
“The idea of people want to play here because they want to play for him. Tremaine Edmonds. Tremaine Edmonds or TJ Edwards? I don't know, man.”
The Draft System: A Flawed Foundation?
“The draft is too big to fail. Look at how many people show up. It started in 2015, the first year they took it on the road to Chicago.”
“The draft is too big to fail. Look at how many people show up. It started in 2015, the first year they took it on the road to Chicago.”
“The NFL's strategy is see no tanking, hear no tanking, speak no tanking. And the first rule of tank club is you never talk about tank club.”
“The draft is like the Sorting Hat and Harry Potter. The bad teams get dibs on the best players, and the best players may end up not being in the best situation.”
Hosts
Guest
Chicago Bears
other
Ben Johnson
person
Ryan Poles
person
Mike Florio
person
Dexter Lawrence
person
Colston Loveland
person
Giants
other
Dennis Allen
person
NBA Tanking
organization
Jaday Walker
person
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