Chicago Bears: Josh McCown Replacement Options In NFL Draft
By Erik Lambert
Dec 1, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Josh McCown (12) runs during the second quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Bears 23-20 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Josh McCown all but assured he would at least test the free agent market. If he does leave, who can the Chicago Bears find to replacement him in the NFL Draft?
Aaron Murray – Georgia – Round Range: 4th to 5th
There is no question Aaron Murray would go higher in the draft if he hadn’t torn his ACL late last season. The Georgia quarterback owns almost every notable SEC passing record. He’s not tall at 6’1″ but makes up for it with a live arm, good accuracy, poise and pocket presence. Throw in his experience and intelligence and he has plenty of promise.
David Fales – San Jose State – Round Range: 4th to 5th
Nearly every scout views David Fales as an ideal West Coast offense quarterback. He’s not blessed with a strong arm but he’s very accurate, decisive with the ball and has enough mobility to keep plays alive. His quick release and vision allow him to handle good pass rushes. In the right kind of offense he can do plenty of good stuff.
Brett Smith – Wyoming – Round Range: 5th to 6th
A very overlooked prospect out of Wyoming, Brett Smith has skills. He’s not overly tall at 6’2″ or boasting the best bulk but he’s deceptively athletic and has had enough quality coaching to work through his progressions to find the open receiver. His footwork and inconsistent decision-making are what get him in trouble, though both are fixable with enough solid coaching the Chicago Bears can provide.
Connor Shaw – Stanford – Round Range: 5th to 6th
His NFL draft stock wasn’t too strong coming out of South Carolina, which is why Connor Shaw needed to have a good scouting combine to win over scouts. He didn’t disappoint, showcasing his underrated athleticism to go with very good intangibles. At 6’0″ with a modest arm he won’t make it beyond the middle rounds but the kid is a tireless worker who can develop into something more than the sum of his parts.
Keith Wenning – Ball State – Round Range: 6th to 7th
From a pure technique standpoint, few quarterbacks are more polished and ready than BallState senior Keith Wenning. He started four years in a pro-style attack. He’s got the size at 6’3″, 218 lbs to go along with outstanding character and work ethic. Accuracy and arm strength are problems though, which is why he’s a late round option but has room to improve. If the Chicago Bears are dead set on rebuilding the defense, he can be that sixth round gamble.