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Chicago Bears: 5 Players To Watch At NFL Scouting Combine

By Erik Lambert

Sep 13, 2014; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche (5) steps up to the line during the game against the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 13, 2014; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche (5) steps up to the line during the game against the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 11, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes running back Devontae Booker (23) carries the ball as Utah State Aggies linebacker Kyler Fackrell (9) attempts to make the tackle during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Utah won 24-14. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 11, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes running back Devontae Booker (23) carries the ball as Utah State Aggies linebacker Kyler Fackrell (9) attempts to make the tackle during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Utah won 24-14. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /

Kyler Fackrell (OLB, Utah State)

Linebackers in a 3-4 defenses are different from the 4-3 the Bears have been used to for so long.  Nowhere is that clearer than on the outside, where the player must be a careful mix of size and length along with enough quickness and athleticism to rush the passer or drop into coverage.  They can be hard to find.  That’s why the Bears need to keep a close watch on Kyle Fackrell.  The tape shows this kid is a long, quick athlete who knows how to rush.  What they need to find out is whether he has the strength to stand up to NFL-caliber tackles.

Eli Apple (CB, Ohio State)

One thing that will become clearer over time is that Fangio and Fox prefer defensive backs with size.  They offer more matchup advantages and can better handle the physicality of the NFL level.  So Ohio State standout Eli Apple has to be grabbing their attention.  He’s 6’1”, 200 lbs and boasts a strong body that makes him a strong tackler who can deliver some good hits.  Physical receivers don’t bother him, but teams still aren’t certain about his ability to cover down the field.  The combine should offer some answers in that department.

Next: CB, OG

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