The Chicago Bears landed a true steal when they got Dillon Thieneman in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. He drew rave reviews in spring workouts and looks like a star in the making, even in a position that goes overlooked often.
Nevertheless, as much as he'll make an immediate impact, and as much as he should draw as much attention and rave reviews as he's done so far, he's not the only crucial addition to this team's secondary.
As Anthony Miller of Bear Goggles On pointed out, Thieneman won't be the most important rookie in Chicago in 2026. That distinction should go to Malik Muhammad, the No. 124 pick out of the Texas Longhorns:
"Muhammad is the most important Bears rookie on this roster because he might need to be great right away," Miller wrote, citing concerns about Tyrique Stevenson's play and Kyle Gordon's health. "The Bears might turn to Muhammad as a Day 1 starter and must play well if this team wants to take the next level and get to the Super Bowl."
The Chicago Bears will need Malik Muhammad to be good right away
Safeties are important, but the Bears already have a proven winner like Coby Bryant there. He should help Thieneman's transition to the pros be smooth, and safeties won't be matched with the opposition's primary playmaker as often.
Opposing teams love attacking rookie cornerbacks. Muhammad is oversized for the position, and he's got great hops and ball instincts. He also did an outstanding job of keeping penalties and big plays to a minimum in college.
That said, he'll face much tougher competition in the pros than in the SEC. And, given the Bears' big struggles at the position, they might not be able to afford letting him grow through his mistakes or learn from the sidelines; they may need him right away.
The Bears have a true DB guru in coach Al Harris. He should help him bring out the best in his game as a true ball-hawk and disruptor, though his corners also tend to gamble and leave their guy open for big plays every here and there. That's not what he showed on tape in college, but he'll certainly benefit from being a more well-rounded prospect who finishes more plays.
This team has the offensive firepower to outscore everyone, but shootouts are unpredictable, and getting the opposition off the field is the best way to help the offense.
Of course, banking all hopes on a Day 3 pick isn't the wisest or safest approach, but it is what it is. And even if he's not a starter right away, his presence there should help elevate the competition, knowing that he's already drawing consideration to take one of the starting spots.
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