When the Chicago Bears signed Taylor Gabriel last spring, the reasoning was easy to see. New head coach Matt Nagy wanted his own version of Tyreek Hill. The lethal vertical threat had devastated defenses for two years under Nagy’s watch in Kansas City. Gabriel had lots of speed, so it made sense. All things considered? It probably wasn’t what he’d hoped.
The fact is Gabriel is indeed fast, but he’s actually smaller than Hill by both two inches and 20 lbs. That sort of thing can make a big difference in the NFL. Too often Gabriel wasn’t able to handle the physicality of defensive backs. He still had his share of big plays, but it was clear he didn’t demand near the same respect.
This leads one to wonder if the Bears might continue hunting for their own Hill in the 2019 draft. It won’t be easy given they have no 1st or 2nd round picks. However, there is a buzz growing around a certain unheralded name in the class. One who even earned a direct comparison to the All-Pro.
Chicago Bears Mecole Hardman connection seems obvious for key reasons
Georgia wide receiver Mecole Hardman is a fascinating story. He was a quarterback in high school. He came to the college as a defensive back and it wasn’t until 2017 that he was asked to move to wide receiver. So he’s new to that position and didn’t have a lot of time to adjust before making his way to the pros. Lance Zierlein of NFL.com sees loads of potential though.
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“Raw but explosive with the burst to uncover underneath and a second gear to threaten over the top. Hardman is a relative newcomer to the position and it shows up at times in routes and his struggles competing for the ball in traffic. Hardman could develop into a lesser version of Tyreek Hill with his playmaking potential after the catch, on deep balls and as a returner. Speed kills in today’s game and Hardman’s could be coveted on Day 2 (Rounds 2-3).”
Hardman is not a polished player by any stretch. He’s a terrific athlete for sure, but he isn’t ready to take on NFL corners for dozens of snaps a game. Believe it or not, this could work to the Bears’ advantage. That rawness factor could convince teams to wait on drafting him until the 3rd round or later since it’s clear he’ll take time to develop. This could give Chicago a prime window to grab him if they are indeed seeking more explosiveness.
Him, Gabriel and Tarik Cohen on the field at the same time would certainly be a sight to behold.
