Bears, Lions Scout Michigan LB Colson in Draft Pursuit

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, March 23rd 2026 at 10:37 GMT by Sporting News
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NFC North Linebacker Battle: Bears and Lions Eye Michigan's Junior Colson in Draft

The NFC North is heating up - and not just on the field. While the offseason is still young, a quiet competition is brewing between the Chicago Bears and the Detroit Lions, both vying for the attention of a highly-regarded linebacker prospect in the upcoming NFL Draft: Junior Colson of the University of Michigan.

Colson, a 6-foot-3, 233-pound force on the Wolverines' defense, is rapidly climbing draft boards, attracting the interest of multiple teams. However, the Bears and Lions appear to be frontrunners, recognizing a potential cornerstone piece for their defensive units. Both teams have distinct needs at the linebacker position, making Colson a particularly attractive target.

For the Chicago Bears, the need is acute. Currently, T.J. Edwards stands as the only signed linebacker for the 2024 season. This glaring hole demands immediate attention, and while free agency and later rounds of the draft will likely see additions, Colson represents a premium option with the potential to be an instant starter and a long-term solution. The Bears, under a new coaching staff focused on building a tough, physical defense, see Colson's tackling prowess and growing coverage skills as a perfect fit for their desired scheme. Their commitment to developing young talent further adds to Colson's appeal.

The Lions, while not in as desperate a situation as the Bears, recognize the value of upgrading their linebacker corps. They currently have Taylor Decker, Alex Anzalone, and Jalen Reeves-Maybin on the roster, but bolstering depth and adding a player with Colson's ceiling is considered a priority. Anzalone has been a reliable player, but injuries have been a concern, and Reeves-Maybin is largely a special teams contributor. The Lions, coming off a successful season, are aiming to build a sustained playoff contender, and a dynamic, playmaking linebacker like Colson could significantly elevate their defensive performance. Detroit's defensive coordinator, Aaron Glenn, has emphasized a need for speed and athleticism at every level of the defense, traits Colson demonstrably possesses.

Colson's rise in stock isn't a surprise to those who've followed his career closely. Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore noted in November that Colson had "really taken a step forward," praising his improvements in coverage, his physicality, and his understanding of leverage. These aren't just empty platitudes; Moore's assessment highlights a player who is not only naturally gifted but also dedicated to refining his game. The fact that he finished the 2023 season with 67 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and a pass breakup demonstrates his immediate impact and playmaking ability.

NFL Draft analysts are taking notice. Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network currently ranks Colson as the No. 5 linebacker in the draft - a significant position for a player who continues to impress scouts. While positional rankings can fluctuate as the draft process unfolds, being in the top five solidifies Colson as a likely first- or second-round pick. This projected draft range adds another layer to the competition between the Bears and the Lions; both teams hold draft capital that could allow them to select Colson, but they may need to trade up to secure his services if another team also recognizes his potential and makes a move.

The key question now becomes: which team will be willing to expend the necessary resources to land Colson? The Bears, with their more pressing need, may be more aggressive in pursuing him. However, the Lions' established winning culture and potential to offer a more stable long-term environment could prove to be a deciding factor. The coming weeks will be filled with pro days, individual workouts, and pre-draft visits as both teams gather as much information as possible before making their final decision. One thing is certain: the battle for Junior Colson is well underway, and the NFC North landscape could be significantly altered by the outcome.