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Chicago Bears rookie already in history books after Week 2
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After selecting Dillon Thieneman in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears didn’t take another player on defense until the fourth. With pick No. 124, Chicago found cornerback Malik Muhammad.
At the time, it was a bit of a peculiar pick, although the fit was clear as Tyrique Stevenson is set to be a free agent after the season. But Stevenson was locked in as CB2 opposite Jaylon Johnson. Returning from injury, Kyler Gordon was expected to handle the slot.
Entering Week 3, the Bears now see how valuable a selection Muhammad was. Stevenson has battled injury as both he and Johnson have struggled mightily at times. Gordon never made that return and remains on injured reserve.
Chicago has had to turn to their fourth-round rookie earlier than expecting. But so far, that has produced historic results.
Chicago Bears’ Malik Muhammad makes history
In Week 1, Muhammad intercepted Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young. Then in Week 2, the rookie brought down Minnesota Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz for a sack. Muhammad became the first rookie defensive back in Bears history to record an interception and sack in his first two games, the team announced.
.@Returnof7 is off to a hot start
pic.twitter.com/e7Z9Oun4LG
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) September 22, 2026
Overall, Muhammad has six tackles and two passes defended to go alongside his sack and pick. As he continues to get acclimated on defense, coordinator Dennis Allen will only use him more. But early on in his NFL career, Muhammad has passed the test.
But for all of the rookie’s talents, the Bears are still entering Week 3 ranked 24th in pass defense, allowing 240 yards per game. Perhaps that’s a sign Muhammad should already be seeing more playing time. But it’s also a message to the rookie that he must step up as well.
While the 2026 still has a long way to go, the Bears are already thinking about their defense of the future. Two weeks into his NFL career, Muhammad is making a strong case for why he should be a part of it.
The post Chicago Bears rookie already in history books after Week 2 appeared first on ChiCitySports.
