Shemar Turner

NFL player. Position: DE. Team: CHI.

Quick Facts

Position: DE (moved from DT)
Team: CHI (Chicago Bears)
Draft: 2025 NFL Draft, Round 2 (Bears pick)

2026 Outlook

Second-year defensive lineman, recovering from torn ACL suffered during his 2025 rookie season (only 75 snaps played). The Bears have announced plans to move him permanently from defensive tackle to defensive end. His 2026 availability is significant for Bears' defense planning—his health status will determine whether the team keeps a 4-DT/6-DE split or a 5-DT/5-DE split. Positive news on recovery came at 2026 minicamp (per Bears Give Disconcerting Injury Update on Shemar Turner). Has starting potential on a Bears defensive line that was among the league's worst last season.

Role / Depth Chart

Positioned as a hybrid defensive lineman moving to defensive end permanently. Expected to contribute as part of the pass-rush rotation opposite Montez Sweat, though his role will depend on recovery progress throughout summer.

Injury Status

Torn ACL (2025): Suffered during 2025 rookie season, limiting him to just 75 snaps. Undergoing rehabilitation through 2026 offseason. Coach Ben Johnson indicated summer 2026 will be critical for his return timeline: "We will see with Shemar. This summer will be a big part for him." (per Bears Give Disconcerting Injury Update on Shemar Turner).

Recent News

2026-05-27 — Most Important Chicago Bears Position Battles to Watch as OTAs Begin (Most Important Chicago Bears Position Battles to Watch as OTAs Begin)
2026-04-27 — Biggest 2026 NFL postdraft questions for all 32 teams (Biggest 2026 NFL postdraft questions for all 32 teams)
2026-03-19 — Bears 2026 free agency tracker: Offseason moves, signings (Bears 2026 free agency tracker: Offseason moves, signings)
2026-05-18 — 2026 NFL offseason: Best NFL team fits for 14 free agents (2026 NFL offseason: Best NFL team fits for 14 free agents)
2026-04-29 — Chicago Bears post-draft depth chart: Speed improved, but was enough done on defense?... (Chicago Bears post-draft depth chart: Speed improved, but was enough done on defense?...)
2026-06-10 — Bears Give Disconcerting Injury Update on Shemar Turner (Bears Give Disconcerting Injury Update on Shemar Turner)

Open Questions

Will Shemar Turner be ready for Week 1 of the 2026 season following ACL recovery?
How will his move from DT to DE affect his role and performance against NFL offensive linemen?