It’s time for the next step of the Chicago Bears’ offseason of talent acquisition: The 2019 NFL Draft. We’re going to look at some of the best prospects at various positions of interest leading up to the draft.
Previous: Quarterback, Running back, Wide receiver, Tight end, Edge defender, Cornerback, Safety, Kicker
Need: Low
Currently on the Roster (2018 Pro Football Focus Grade):
Pro Football Focus’ Best Available Prospects:
- Khalen Saunders, Western Illinois
- Dre’Mont Jones, Ohio State
- Greg Gaines, Washington
- Kingsley Keke, Texas A&M
Team Fit
If there is one position group the Bears don’t have a need, it’s along the defensive line. Akiem Hicks and Eddie Goldman hold it down up front with Bilal Nichols, Roy Robertson-Harris, and Jonathan Bullard rotating in and out. The Bears will eventually need to add to that group because Bullard is in the final year of his rookie deal and no true nose tackle on the roster behind Goldman.
Most Likely to be Available When the Bears Are on the Clock:
Should a 3-4 defensive end show up as the best player on their board, the Bears could pick one in Rounds 4, 5, or 7, and it probably wouldn’t look like a reach.
The Bears Have Reportedly Met With…
L.J. Collier, TCU; Byron Cowart, Maryland; Tim Terrell, Northern Colorado
If I Had to Pick One:
Ohio State has produced its share of defensive stud prospects over the years and this class isn’t going to be any different. According to PFF, Dre’Mont Jones earned an impressive 90.5 pass-rushing grade as an interior defender. Not bad for a player who seemingly didn’t come off the field, as he played 500 defensive snaps in 2018. Wouldn’t it be nice to add another menacing threat to the Bears’ defensive line?