The Chicago Bears made their first true surprise pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting Stanford tight end Sam Roush with the 69th overall selection.
The Bears had made their first trade of the draft in the second round, moving back from pick No. 60 in a trade with the Tennessee Titans and receiving pick No. 69 and 144 in exchange. Giving themselves two third round picks, and adding a fifth round selection in the process.
Making the trade signified that the Bears felt they could still find value at the top of their board by moving back, but the issue became who they spent the draft pick on, a position not in need, tight end. Chicago spent their 69th pick on a tight end, who actually had drawn comparisons to Bears veteran Cole Kmet in his pre-draft analysis projection.
After selecting Colston Loveland with their first round pick last season, and still having Kmet on the roster, the selection of Roush is quite confusing. Especially considering the Bears still need to address the offensive and defensive lines.
NFL world reacts to Bears selecting TE Sam Roush in NFL draft
This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: NFL world reacts to Bears picking TE Sam Roush in 2026 NFL Draft
Reporting by Mike Pendleton, Bears Wire / Bears Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
