Draft Dilemma: Chicago Bears Urged to Steer Clear of Malachi Lawrence
In the high-stakes world of the NFL Draft, analysts often predict which prospects are ideal fits for specific teams. However, a unique form of prediction involves identifying which draft picks teams should actively avoid. This year, the Chicago Bears find themselves at the center of such a debate, with experts cautioning them against selecting UCF Knights edge rusher Malachi Lawrence.
Conflicting Predictions for the Bears
Bleacher Report analyst Alex Ballentine recently compiled a list titled "1 Prospect Each Team Must Avoid in 2026 NFL Draft," singling out Lawrence for the Bears. This recommendation comes despite other analysts, like Kole Noble from A to Z Sports, projecting Lawrence to the Bears as their first-round, 25th overall pick. Noble highlights Lawrence's rare combination of height, length, and athleticism, noting his 6-foot-4, 253-pound frame and explosive speed off the edge, which could address Chicago's long-standing need for an impactful pass rusher.
Why Lawrence Might Not Fit Chicago's Needs
Ballentine's caution stems from concerns about Lawrence's versatility. While acknowledging his incredible athleticism, Ballentine points out that Lawrence excels primarily in a standing-up position, which could pose issues against larger perimeter tackles in run defense. This is a critical flaw for the Bears, who struggled significantly in run defense last season, ranking 29th in yards allowed per carry and surrendering 2,287 yards on the ground. Despite improving their sack count to 35, moving from last to top 10 in the league, their poor run defense suggests Lawrence may not be the optimal match.
San Francisco 49ers Emerge as a Potential Suitor
If the Bears pass on Lawrence, the San Francisco 49ers, led by quarterback Brock Purdy, could be a fitting alternative. The 49ers drafted Mykel Williams in 2025 to complement veteran Nick Bosa, but both players had limited production in 2025, with Bosa recording 2.0 sacks in three games and Williams managing 1.0 sack in nine games. Lawrence, in contrast, posted 7.0 sacks, 28 total tackles, two pass deflections, and two forced fumbles in 2025, with college totals of 20.0 sacks and 72 tackles.
Bleacher Report's Brent Sobleski notes that Lawrence's physical tools and athletic profile could instantly boost the 49ers' defensive front on passing downs. He could serve as a designated pass rusher early in his career, allowing Williams to shift inside on sub-packages, creating a faster and more athletic pass rush. This strategy would leverage three major defensive line investments simultaneously.
The Final Countdown
With just days remaining until the draft, the question lingers: will the Bears heed the warnings and avoid Lawrence, or will the 49ers seize the opportunity to enhance their pass rush? Only time will reveal which team ultimately drafts Malachi Lawrence, but the debate underscores the intricate balance between athletic potential and team-specific needs in NFL roster building.
