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Chicago Bears find future star in peculiar NFL Draft pick
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Entering the 2026 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears already had Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland on their roster. But that didn’t stop head coach Ben Johnson and company from selecting tight end Sam Roush with the No. 69 overall pick.
During the 2025 season, Johnson utilized 13 personnel – three tight ends on the field – at a nearly nine percent rate, fifth-highest in the league. The Los Angeles Rams, who led the NFL in offense by averaging 394.6 yards per game, used 13 personnel almost 31 percent of the time, by far most in the NFL, via Sumer Sports.
As the Bears try to become the best offensive team in the league, it seems likely Chicago will ramp up their 13 personnel usage. With Loveland, Kmet and Roush now in the fold, Johnson has the pieces necessary to run the formation consistently.
Due to Loveland and Kmet’s pass catching ability, Roush may be relegated to blocking duties early on. But as he becomes more comfortable in the Bears’ offense, he should become another dangerous pass catcher for quarterback Caleb Williams.
Chicago Bears’ Sam Roush viewed as future NFL star
The presence of Chicago’s other tight ends hasn’t dimmed Roush’s shine. Numerous decision makers across the NFL see the tight end only growing into a crucial difference maker for the Bears, via Jourdan Rodrigue of the Athletic.
“Versatile chess piece whose production won’t always show in the stat sheet,” an AFC scout said.
“Excellent size,” an AFC executive added. “Physical run blocker that can function at the POA (point of attack). Strong upper (body) to wrench and steer. Unique in that he’s a true Y with size and good testing numbers.”
“Certainly fits the (tight ends) trend in the league,” an NFC executive proclaimed. “Hands and run after (the catch) potential flashed in the preseason.”
As a rookie on a crowded depth chart, Roush may have his work cut out for him in terms of making an immediate impact. But the Bears wouldn’t have used a third-round pick on him if they didn’t think the tight end wouldn’t develop into a key building block.
The post Chicago Bears find future star in peculiar NFL Draft pick appeared first on ChiCitySports.
