Dillon Thieneman brings elite potential to the Bears that can lead to a budding rivalry against fellow first-round pick Caleb Downs
Chicago Bears first-round pick Dillon Thieneman can have a friendly competition against Dallas Cowboys first-round safety Caleb Downs going into their NFL careers.
The Chicago Bears got an absolute steal in the first-round of the 2026 NFL Draft when Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman fell down to the 25th overall pick.
Even general manager Ryan Poles noted it was a 50/50 shot Thieneman was on the board when Chicago was on the clock with the Minnesota Vikings being the top threat to watch based on the simulations they ran.
The board worked out to perfection last Thursday, allowing the Bears to come out of opening night with their top-ranked prospect at a major position of need. And Thieneman will bring some elite potential to Chicago’s defense.
Dillon Thieneman is already being viewed as a potential All-Pro player for the Bears
“I think he was a tremendous steal,” Oregon defensive coordinator Chris Hampton said on 104.3 The Score. “I think you’re getting a dynamic football player, a selfless individual, a guy that can play at all three levels. He can take in the box, he’s good in slot coverage, and he can play the deep-third of the field. . .
“You got a guy that can tackle, that’s got a high IQ, got great ball skills, tremendous work ethic. I think he’s a perennial All-Pro, Pro Bowl safety.”
That’s very strong praise from his defensive coordinator, who of course will praise his former standout defensive back. But, no one knows the potential Thieneman can bring to Chicago more than Hampton.
Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen and defensive backs coach Al Harris just produced a first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl safety in this system last season in Kevin Byard III. Thieneman absolutely has the traits to reach that kind of level sooner than later. Which also brings up a fun competition worth talking about.
Who will reach All-Pro status first, Dillon Thieneman or Caleb Downs?
Thieneman was the second safety selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. The first was Ohio State’s Caleb Downs, selected 11th overall by the Dallas Cowboys.
Downs was rightfully viewed as a better prospect and lands in a great situation as well in Christian Parker’s new defense. Just like Thieneman, Downs has All-Pro potential entering into the league.
“He has football savvy and a great feel for the game, which gives him alignment versatility and will allow him a faster acclimation than most rookies,” ESPN’s Matt Miller explained. “The expectation is that he’ll become a high-end starter with All-Pro potential during his rookie contract.”
Both Thieneman and Downs are expected to be high-end starters and immediate difference-makers for their new teams. Both teams also happen to be top NFC threats going into the 2026 season that play in a big market.
Eventually, both players are sure to claim All-Pro recognition in their respective careers. It’ll be interesting to see who reaches that point first.