Full Breakdown
Chicago Bears Draft Linebacker Keyshaun Elliott in Fifth Round
4/26/2026, 1:07:50 AM
Fifth-Round Pick Bolsters a Thin Linebacker Corps
On April 25, 2026, the Chicago Bears used the 166th overall selection in the fifth round of the NFL Draft to take Arizona State linebacker Keyshaun Elliott. The pick came after a Day 3 trade with the Carolina Panthers that also yielded fourth-round cornerback Malik Muhammad, addressing depth on defense.
Keyshaun Elliott: Production and Physical Profile
Elliott, a 22-year-old who measured 6-1 to 6-2 and 231-233 lb, started 38 collegiate games at New Mexico State and Arizona State. In 2025 he logged 98 tackles, seven sacks and a team-leading 14.5 tackles for loss, earning second-team All-Big 12 honors. Pro-day numbers included a 4.58-second 40-yard dash, 38-inch vertical, 10-5-foot broad jump and 21 bench-press reps. The Athletic’s Dane Brugler gave him a third-round grade and ranked him 83rd among linebackers.
Official Comments from the Bears
Bears West Coast scout Reese Hicks highlighted Elliott’s high-character profile and work ethic, calling him a valuable locker-room presence. Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen described him as a “physical thumper” who can contribute on special teams while learning interior linebacker duties. The team said he will compete for a reserve spot and special-teams snaps as a rookie.
Criticism and Developmental Concerns
Scouts flagged Elliott’s limited pass-coverage instincts and “too heavy-footed” pursuit speed, labeling him “lacking the athletic traits to make enough plays at the next level.” Analysts also noted a need for added functional strength and more consistent tackle execution before he can secure a starting role.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Elliott must prove his value on passing downs,” — Dane Brugler, The Athletic
- “You just watch a lotta film,” — Keyshaun Elliott
- “Works hard. He's everything you want in a player, especially Day 3 of the draft.” — Reese Hicks, Bears West Coast scout
- “That’s the first thing I’m going to be doing when I get into the building, meeting the special teams coordinator,” — Keyshaun Elliott
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources list Elliott at 6-1 ¾ or 6-2 and 231 lb vs 233 lb, and record his career tackles as 300 or 301. Some outlets cite 14 tackles for loss, others 14.5. Coverage ability is described both as a weakness and as “capable in coverage.” One report says he never played special teams in college, another projects him as a “physical thumper” who can star on special teams.
Outlook for 2026 and Beyond
Elliott is expected to earn special-teams snaps and serve as a backup inside or strong-side linebacker in 2026. Development under Dennis Allen could position him as a contender for a starting role by 2027, especially as T.J. Edwards returns from injury and the Bears continue rebuilding their defense.
