Bears predicted to draft Caleb Lomu who's linked to Eagles, Lions, Texans, 49ers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Chicago Bears will be on the clock on Thursday with the 25th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The Bears could go a variety of ways with their top pick; however, there is a clear need in the pass rush department. While that is the case, ESPN's Matt Miller and Jeremy Fowler predict that the Bears will bolster their offensive line and select Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu.

" Offseason speculation has centered around the Bears going after an edge rusher or safety here, but my conversations with league sources throughout the past week kept going back to left tackle. Rookie Ozzy Trapilo played well in six starts before suffering a season-ending knee injury that is expected to keep him out in 2026. That opens the door for a left tackle to be picked if one is available. At only 21 years old, Lomu is a two-year starter who is plug-and-play ready on the blindside."

Fowler noted how Lomu has been linked to the Eagles, Lions, Texans and 49ers. As things stand, the Eagles and Lions are set to pick before the Bears on Day 1.

Lomu, 21, is predicted to go in the first round and has the traits to become a key piece to the Bears' offensive line. He possesses a strong frame, shows good athleticism getting out of his stance into pulls or cut-off blocks, and has demonstrated the ability to control pass rushers with a firm, powerful grip.

Lomu spent the last two seasons as the starting left tackle for the Utes.

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