The Chicago Bears are emerging from the 2026 NFL Draft with renewed optimism and a class of rookies expected to help elevate the roster. However, analysts believe the team could still benefit from additional veteran help before the start of the 2026 season.

With new head coach Ben Johnson leading the charge, the Bears have made several roster upgrades. Still, there are lingering concerns about depth on the defensive line, prompting suggestions that Chicago could turn to the free-agent market for reinforcement.

One intriguing possibility involves adding a veteran who recently played for the Bears’ NFC North rival, the Detroit Lions.

Bears Linked to Former Lions Defensive Tackle D.J. Reader

Shortly after the conclusion of the 2026 NFL Draft on April 26, Mike Pendleton of USA Today’s Bears Wire highlighted several free agents who could help Chicago strengthen its roster heading into the upcoming season.

According to Pendleton, the Bears may continue exploring veteran additions.

“While not every player will have an immediate impact or opportunity, Chicago could be a team that continues to dip into the free agent market ahead of the 2026 season,” Pendleton wrote, noting the team could look to add more experience across the roster.

Among the names mentioned was veteran defensive tackle D.J. Reader, who spent the 2025 season with the Lions.

Pendleton suggested Reader could be a strong locker-room presence for Chicago, even if he isn’t expected to deliver big sack numbers. The veteran defensive lineman appeared in all 17 games for Detroit last season, recording 28 tackles.

While Reader has reportedly drawn interest from the New York Giants following their trade involving Dexter Lawrence, Pendleton believes the Bears should still consider pursuing him.

Signing Reader could provide Chicago with a proven veteran leader on the defensive line. According to contract data from Spotrac, Reader has earned approximately $79 million in career earnings during his NFL tenure.

Chicago Bears Receive Mixed Reviews for 2026 Draft Class

Despite adding several promising prospects, the Bears’ overall 2026 draft class has received mixed reviews from analysts.

In its post-draft evaluation, The Ringer graded Chicago’s draft haul a B-, praising the team’s first-round selection but questioning some of the value found later in the draft.

The outlet highlighted Chicago’s selection of Dillon Thieneman from Oregon as a major positive. The safety is viewed as a potential day-one contributor who could help replace departed defensive back Jaquan Brisker.

However, analysts were less enthusiastic about some of the Bears’ Day 2 picks, including center Logan Jones, tight end Sam Roush, and wide receiver Zavion Thomas.

Bears Could Still Add Veteran Help Before the Season

While draft grades can vary widely, Chicago’s leadership appears confident in the direction of the roster under Johnson.

Still, adding an experienced defensive lineman like Reader could help solidify the defensive front and provide leadership to a young roster as the Bears prepare for the 2026 campaign.

With training camp still months away, Chicago may continue exploring the free-agent market to complete its roster and position itself as a stronger contender in the NFC North.