The Chicago Bears 2018 draft class is already off to a strong start. Three of their picks shined in the Hall of Fame game. Bilal Nichols (5th round) and Kylie Fitts (6th round) had sacks while Javon Wims (7th round) had seven catches for 89 yards. Then in the second game against Cincinnati, James Daniels (2nd round) had a standout night blocking at center.
The amazing part is the two most heralded players of this class haven’t even gotten involved yet. Roquan Smith (1st round) remains away from the team due to his contract dispute. Anthony Miller (2nd round) only played a few series against Cincinnati. Fans are dying to see what those two can do in a full game.
According to Pro Football Focus in collaboration with ESPN, the expectations for both are much higher than people think. Not only are they predicted to be among the best rookies in the entire 2018 class, but they will actually deliver standout years in the stat column with each owning a top mark by season’s end.
Smith and Miller will represent Chicago Bears 2018 draft class well
It starts with Miller. The buzz on the wide receiver from Memphis has been loud throughout training camp. His precision route running, toughness and sure hands have people excited. He’s expected to man the slot receiver position in between Allen Robinson and Taylor Gabriel. That should open up plenty of opportunities catches. Hence why he’s expected to lead the league in receptions among slot receivers.
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“We saw a season ago with JuJu Smith-Schuster and Cooper Kupp that rookies can transition quickly and effectively into the slot. Miller’s skill set in the slot might top both of those guys. Last season at Memphis, Miller averaged a ridiculous 3.43 yards per route from the slot and scored eight touchdowns. His 19 broken tackles after the catch last year also make him a screen weapon in the Bears’ offense.”
That’s fairly impressive for sure, but somehow the prediction for Smith may have it beat. One of the most underrated qualities of a defensive player in the NFL is tackling. Not just being able to bring ball carriers down, but being able to do so consistently without mistakes. Nothing is more frustrating than missed tackles. It seems they don’t think this will be a problem for the #8 overall pick, who will lead the NFL in tackling efficiency.
“Bobby Wagner has held the throne as the league’s most sure-tackling linebacker for some time. Last season, he missed only three tackles on 133 attempts. He’ll have some stiff competition from Smith — if he signs his rookie contract and gets on the field. The former Georgia defender missed all six a season ago on 136 attempts. With far more space in the college game, one could argue the latter as the more impressive feat.”
While both predictions are a long shot to actually come true, the fact that some believe it’s even possible is a testament to just how good this Bears draft class has a chance to be. If things play out as hoped, this could end up being the group that catapults the franchise back into relevance over the next several years.
