The Chicago Bears are on the hunt for a new center. Trading for Garrett Bradbury was a wise pivot after Drew Dalman abruptly retired at age 27. However, the veteran doesn’t offer much long-term security, as he’s in his 30s and in the last year of his current deal. Head coach Ben Johnson will want somebody they can groom to be in front of Caleb Williams for a long time, creating some stability in the middle of the offensive line. That might explain why they were out in force at the Kansas State pro day to watch Sam Hecht.
Most consider him among the best centers in the 2026 draft class. While not boasting ideal size or length, most experts believe he’s the most polished player at his position. His technique is remarkably sharp for somebody his age, and he doesn’t make many mental mistakes. He’s like Dalman in many ways but may actually be a better pass protector. That would certainly explain the Bears’ interest.
The more interesting point is the impression they made on Hecht himself. He revealed his thoughts on meeting the coaching staff to Kay Adams on Up And Adams.
Sam Hecht sure sounds eager for the chance to join the Bears.
We’ve already seen how much head coach Ben Johnson values smart players. It was the big reason behind trading for Joe Thuney last year from Kansas City. Intelligence is the primary driving force for his offensive line evaluations. That usually means players in a draft with strong technique likely receive the strongest consideration. Hecht has many of the same traits Thuney did and might have more core strength. If anybody can transition to the NFL quickly, it would be him.
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Much depends on when he goes. Projections point to the 3rd or 4th rounds as the likely sweet spot. However, the soft nature of this center class might compel teams to grab their guy earlier. Chicago has two 2nd round picks. If they like Hecht enough, they may choose to grab him with one of those. We know how much Johnson values the center position. It wouldn’t be at all surprising. Don’t be surprised if the two parties meet again in the coming weeks for a private visit.
The Bears must hope for some luck on their choice.
Center has been arguably the most problematic position for the organization since Olin Kreutz left. They’ve had several starters come through the doors. Something always seemed to be wrong. Hroniss Grasu was never the same after tearing his ACL. Cody Whitehair suffered from chronic snapping issues. Sam Mustipher wasn’t athletic enough for his size. Lucas Patrick couldn’t stay healthy. Now Dalman retires. Locking down that position has been a series of massive headaches over the past 15 years.
Perhaps Sam Hecht can change that. He has already proven durable from his long stint as a starter in college. We know he’s a technician at the position and a good athlete. He already seems to love the Bears’ coaches. Getting a chance to learn under a veteran like Bradbury would only help his transition. As always, it depends on whether the team can draft him. They aren’t the only ones interested in the young center. They must hope the board shows them favor next month.
