Sporting News

Chicago Bears Draft History: A Comprehensive Look from 1936 to Present

Overview

The Chicago Bears hold a rich history in the National Football League (NFL), and their draft selections have played a significant role in their success. This blog post provides a comprehensive overview of the Bears' draft history, including year-by-year draft information and notable players selected.

Early Years (1936-1950)

The Bears first participated in the NFL Draft in 1936, when they selected Glen Preshaw with the 11th overall pick. In the early years of the draft, the Bears made several key selections, including:

George Musso (1937): A future Hall of Famer and one of the greatest linebackers in Bears history.

Sid Luckman (1939): A legendary quarterback who led the Bears to three NFL championships.

Tom Harmon (1941): The Heisman Trophy winner who was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Golden Era (1951-1965)

The Bears' draft success continued in the 1950s and 1960s, as they selected a generation of talented players who helped them win two more NFL championships:

Bill George (1952): A star defensive end who made eight Pro Bowls.

Gale Sayers (1965): A Hall of Fame running back known for his speed and agility.

Dick Butkus (1965): A legendary linebacker who is widely considered one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history.

Recent Years (1986-Present)

In recent years, the Bears have drafted several notable players who have contributed to their success:

Mike Singletary (1981): A Hall of Fame linebacker who led the Bears' defense during their Super Bowl XX victory.

Walter Payton (1975): The NFL's all-time leading rusher who is considered one of the greatest running backs of all time.

Justin Fields (2021): A promising young quarterback who is expected to be a key part of the Bears' future.

Conclusion

The Chicago Bears have a long and storied draft history, filled with both legendary players and memorable moments. By selecting talented and dedicated athletes, the Bears have been able to maintain their status as one of the NFL's most successful and iconic teams.

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