Without a 1st round pick, it’s even more difficult than usual to get an idea of what the Chicago Bears might do in the upcoming NFL draft. GM Ryan Pace has always kept his cards close to the vest. He uses free agency to plug as many holes as possible so he can take the “best player available.” Thus far he’s kept to that same strategy. Already the Bears have taken care of some key needs, making it tougher to know what they’ll do on April 24th when they go on the clock.
Will it be offensive line help? More depth for their pass rush? A starter in the secondary at cornerback or safety? All are possible. However, I’ve been informed by a source that the team is hoping to “add a few weapons” in this draft. Among the names holding their attention include Clemson wide receiver Tee Higgins, Notre Dame wide receiver Chase Claypool, and Boston College running back A.J. Dillon.
All were highly productive for their respective programs and can be viewed as relatively safe options. Or at least as safe as 2nd round prospects can get. Obviously there are other names on the list including possible quarterbacks. Much will depend on what happens in the 42 picks ahead of them.
Chicago Bears seem focused on finding playmakers
None of this should be a huge surprise. The Bears had the 27th ranked offense in the NFL last season. A big reason for that was the lack of big plays they got. Allen Robinson was their only consistent producer on that front. Anthony Miller had some nice moments but he’s coming off another shoulder surgery. Beyond that? Guys like Taylor Gabriel and Trey Burton landed on IR. Tarik Cohen wasn’t nearly as explosive as he was in 2018. Clearly head coach Matt Nagy isn’t willing to wait around to see if those guys can rebound or not.
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There is also the element of finding more offensive line help that should not be ignored.
Higgins was a consistent big-play threat for Clemson the past two years, scoring 26 touchdowns and helping them beat Alabama for a national championship. Claypool really blossomed in 2019 for the Irish, going for over 1,000 yards and 13 touchdowns. The 6’4 kid then delivered a surprising 4.42 in the 40-yard dash at the combine. So not only does he have size but also speed.
Dillon? He was the workhorse of the Eagles offense for three years, rushing for 4,382 yards and 38 touchdowns. He’s known for his considerable power and vision but has more speed than he gets credit for.
Any of those guys would look pretty good in navy blue. Whether they’re the ones the Bears ultimately pick? Only time will tell.
