Updated Chicago Bears Day 3 NFL Draft Notes
By Erik Lambert
With Day 2 finished the Chicago Bears must now lean on their scouts to truly solidify their roster as the NFL draft concludes.
Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton cement Bears front
Bears fans wanted defensive tackle fixed in the NFL draft and they got their wish as Phil Emery loaded up the position on Day 2 with Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton. In Ferguson the Bears get a big, powerful space eater who exudes great strength to hold the point of attack and stop the run. In Sutton they have a kid was arguably the most dominant interior pass rusher in 2012 before bad advice led to weight gains that hampered him in 2013. If these two play to their potential the Chicago front just got a lot better.
Dontae Johnson and Antone Exum offer crafty safety solutions
The Chicago Bears did the right thing by not reaching for safety in the second or third rounds but it still remains a position of concern. Unfortunately the position is thinning to a point where they are unlikely to find a difference-maker who can start. On the other hand, recent hints suggest there may be a way around that problem, and it starts with exploring a strong cornerback class. One thing Phil Emery told his scouts is to keep an eye on corners who might be able to switch to safety. Looking at the board it might have been a great decision because there are still some quality players with experience at corner and safety including Dontae Johnson out of N.C. State and Kyle Fuller’s Virginia Tech teammate Antone Exum.
Ka’Deem Carey and Devonta Freeman remain running back options
They didn’t pull the trigger early but the Bears are fully expected to address the running back position at some point in the 2014 NFL draft. Options remain available. Arizona standout Ka’Deem Carey is still up for grabs. He isn’t the fastest but showed great vision and instinct when carrying their offense. His combine showing hurt his stock but the kid is a complete back who can do everything asked of him. The same goes for Florida State star Devonta Freeman. Despite a shorter frame he has the eyes, agility and toughness to tote plenty of touches. He makes difficult catches look easy and sticks his nose in as a pass protector. Both would become a great backup to Matt Forte
Christian Jones and Telvin Smith lead strong linebacker group
The Chicago Bears drafted two linebackers in the 2013 NFL draft, so the position wasn’t as pressing a need but there are still some concern about the lack of depth, particularly in the middle. Two names that certainly must catch the eye of Phil Emery are Florida State teammates Christian Jones and Telvin Smith. Jones played inside for the Seminoles and displayed that coveted athleticism and range 4-3 teams love in the middle because he can take on blocks against the run and can turn and drop into coverage. Smith is often called too light for linebacker but it’s hard to deny his ability. He has outstanding eyes and instincts, knows where the ball is going and has the speed to blow plays up before they start. He tackles, can chase down ball carriers and is a leader on the field.