The Chicago Bears have their critics in regard to what they did for free agency this year. Most felt they leaned a little too heavily on older players. Guys like Jimmy Graham (33), Nick Foles (31), and Robert Quinn (29). They are viewed as temporary solutions at best. Still, the fact is the Bears are in better shape than they were two months ago. So where does this leave their roster needs? Most would agree wide receiver and defensive back top the list. This would explain their interest in Cameron Dantzler.
The Bears parted ways with Prince Amukamara this offseason. This has left an uncertain void at cornerback opposite Kyle Fuller. They did sign Tre Roberson and Artie Burns to improve the depth but neither can be considered locks to be as dependable as Amukamara was. Hence the interest in Dantzler, one of the top corners in the 2020 draft.
He reportedly met virtually with the Bears in the past couple of weeks according to Justin Melo of The Draft Wire.
Cameron Dantzler looks like a Bears corner
Defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano has a long history with defensive backs. One thing he has tended to prefer is guys known for being tough, physical and long. All things that are almost required to perform well in press coverage against top wide receivers. Lance Zierlein of NFL.com came away impressed, comparing him to former Pro Bowler Al Harris.
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“Very long, stringy cornerback with surprising strength and a competitive mindset that had quarterbacks looking for easier battles elsewhere. He looks to suffocate and contest the route from start to finish and does an excellent job of maintaining phase in the vertical plane. His cover style will draw attention from NFL game officials early on, but the athleticism and length should allow him to trust his technique.”
One concern teams had about Dantzler was a perceived lack of speed. Something that wasn’t helped when he ran a pedestrian 4.64 in the 40-yard dash at the scouting combine. However, he eased some of those fears when he improved that time to a 4.38 during a virtual pro day on Thursday. Even if the time was a bit generous, it’s still really good for a man who is 6’2 and 188 lbs.
Combine that with strong game tape and this could be a guy who can start for the Bears long-term.
