
Family roots spark Dillon Thieneman’s journey to the Bears
Dillon Thieneman credits his family for fueling his love of football, from a four‑year‑old dreaming on TV to learning the game from his brothers Jake and Brennan, who played safety at Purdue. After stints at Purdue and Oregon, he impressed at the NFL Combine and was drafted 25th overall by the Chicago Bears in 2026, with the Bears praising his speed and versatility as he transitions to the NFL under a no‑sugarcoating coaching approach similar to his college experience.


