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Bears, Lions Battle for Michigan Linebacker Colson in NFL Draft

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, March 23rd 2026 at 9:19 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Chicago, IL & Detroit, MI - March 23rd, 2026 - The competitive spirit of the NFC North isn't confined to on-field play. As the NFL Draft approaches, a quiet battle is brewing between division rivals, the Chicago Bears and the Detroit Lions, both vying for the services of promising Michigan linebacker, Junior Colson. The rising draft stock of Colson, fueled by impressive Combine results and strong scouting reports, has positioned him as a key target for both teams seeking to bolster their defensive capabilities.

Colson's name has become increasingly prominent in NFL circles, lauded for a compelling blend of size, athleticism, and aggressive tackling. While currently projected as a potential Day 3 pick, his performance at the NFL Scouting Combine has dramatically altered the landscape, potentially pushing him higher up draft boards. He clocked a swift 4.62 seconds in the 40-yard dash and demonstrated exceptional explosiveness with a 35.5-inch vertical jump - numbers that validated the initial assessments of his physical tools.

Bears Seeking Linebacker Stability Post-Smith

The Chicago Bears have been actively searching for a long-term solution at linebacker since the controversial trade of Roquan Smith to the Baltimore Ravens prior to the 2023 season. While the team has experimented with various options, a consistent, reliable presence in the middle of the defense has remained elusive. The void left by Smith is significant, both in terms of on-field production and leadership. The Bears, under a new coaching regime focused on building a tough, physical identity, see Colson as a potential cornerstone for their defensive rebuild. His tackling prowess and ability to diagnose plays align with the defensive philosophy being implemented at Halas Hall. The team has reportedly dedicated significant time to evaluating Colson's game film, focusing on his instincts and ability to quickly process information - crucial attributes for a modern NFL linebacker.

Lions Aim to Fortify Run Defense

Across the division, the Detroit Lions, fresh off their Super Bowl appearance (though ultimately unsuccessful, a testament to their current status as contenders), are also targeting Colson. While the Lions possess a potent offense, their run defense has been a point of emphasis for improvement. Despite a generally strong defensive line, the linebackers have occasionally struggled to consistently shut down opposing rushing attacks. Colson's size and tackling ability would provide an immediate upgrade in run support, allowing the Lions' defensive front to be even more aggressive. Furthermore, his coverage skills, while still developing, show promise, making him a potentially well-rounded linebacker capable of contributing in all facets of the game.

Rising Draft Stock and Potential Impact

The increasing buzz surrounding Colson is not simply hype. Scouts consistently point to his high football IQ, quick reaction time, and relentless pursuit of the ball carrier. His ability to shed blocks and navigate through traffic is noteworthy, and his willingness to deliver impactful hits has earned him praise. Some analysts are even suggesting that, with the right coaching, Colson could develop into a Pro Bowl-caliber player. This potential is fueling the competition between the Bears and Lions, as both teams recognize the value of adding a player with such a high ceiling to their defensive roster.

The current draft landscape suggests that Colson may be available when the Bears and Lions are scheduled to pick on Day 3. However, his recent surge in popularity could see him drafted earlier than anticipated, potentially forcing one or both teams to trade up to secure his services. The dynamic between these two NFC North rivals will be one to watch closely in the coming weeks, as both teams attempt to capitalize on this potential opportunity to improve their defenses and solidify their positions within the division.

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