At least 1 NFL DB coach would take Bears’ Dillon Thieneman over Caleb Downs

The Chicago Bears landed a key defensive building block in Dillon Thieneman at pick No. 25 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Some even believe he is the best safety in the class.

Based on draft selection, that distinction goes to Caleb Downs, who was picked No. 11 by the Dallas Cowboys. Still, at least one NFL defensive back coach thinks that’ll be Thieneman’s title when all is said and done, via Bruce Feldman of The Athletic.

“I would take Thieneman over Downs,” an NFL DB coach said. “Thieneman is one of the more versatile safeties I’ve seen come out in the last few years. I feel good about him in the deep part of the field, about him in and around the box and about him in coverage, especially from a safeties standpoint. I loved the movement skills from him at the combine. He looked really fluid and loose. There’s a lot to like with him.”

The Bears have completely rebuilt their safety room over the offseason. Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker both left in free agency while Coby Bryant and now Thieneman have been brought in. Chicago is expecting their new tandem to bring an explosive element to the secondary.

Over his three collegiate seasons, two at Purdue, one at Oregon, Thieneman racked up 306 tackles, five passes defended and eight interceptions. He was named a First-team All-American in 2025 after putting up two picks, five passes defended and 96 tackles.

Thieneman will be tasked with helping the Bears revitalize their defense. If he becomes a leader in the secondary, perhaps Chicago got an even bigger steal than expected.

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