In recent weeks, the scuttlebutt when it came to the Carolina Panthers and their first-round pick came down to a pair of Oregon Ducks. Would general manager Dan Morgan opt for tight end Kenyon Sadiq or safety Dillon Thieneman with the 19th overall pick?

Defensive back Dillon Thieneman sits down with Jeff Joniak after being selected No. 25 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Kiera Thieneman, the sister of Bears draft pick Dillon Thieneman, stole the show at the NFL Draft with her facial expressions.

Thieneman was a near-unanimous pick by the Vikings at No. 18 in mock drafts throughout the draft process. So, why did Minnesota pass on him.

It was evident Friday at Halas Hall that football and family are both extremely important to Bears first-round pick Dillon Thieneman.

Bears TE Colston Loveland enters his second year after a strong rookie campaign that finished with 58 receptions for 713 yards and six touchdowns. Loveland is ready for a larger role in 2026 and believes Chicago has enough offensive weapons to remain successful.