Chicago Bears: New Draft Prospects To Watch Carefully

Chicago Bears fans are likely already getting acquainted with the big names of college football expected to headline the 2018 NFL draft.

Understandable. The Bears are still in the midst of a rebuild. Though their roster has steadily improved in terms of talent the past couple offseasons, they still haven’t quite put the pieces together. Two or three holes remain in key areas before people start considering them as a playoff hopeful. Next year feels like it will be the chance for GM Ryan Pace to polish off his project.

Of course that will require a steep knowledge of every player who will be available. Bears fans may know the big names right now, but what about the names who are flying under the radar? Here are four worth keeping an eye on as the season progresses.

James Washington (WR, Oklahoma State)

Probably the best bang-for-buck receiver in college football right now. James Washington doesn’t get thrown to as often as other top targets but when he does he’s always making the defense pay. Not only is a vertical threat, he’s got solid 6’1″ size and a pair of strong hands for making the highlight reel catch. Despite having just 13 catches thus far he’s at 367 yards and three touchdowns for the season. He’s averaging a ridiculous 28.2 yards per catch thus far. The Bears want more big plays. He’d provide them.

Deontay Burnett (WR, USC)

Sam Darnold is the talk of the college football world. Most expect him to be the first QB off the board in 2018. Playing with somebody that high profile can be great for getting noticed. Such is the case with Deontay Burnett who has become the go-to guy for Darnold this year. The 6’0″ receiver is off to a torrid start with 386 yards and four touchdowns in his first three games. Keep in mind he had 622 yards all of last season. Safe to say he’s improved a lot. The kid has speed, quickness and an ability to get himself open.

Sam Hubbard (DE, Ohio State)

The Bears need another young pass rusher. Though they have Leonard Floyd who looks like a long-term star and Akiem Hicks in the middle, that front seven is dangerously thin in the pass rusher department. Sam Hubbard was considered the heir apparent to Joey Bosa last year at Ohio State. However, after just 3.5 sacks people were wondering if that were true. Through three games this season he already has two sacks and is applying consistent pressure. He’s built big at 6’5″, 265 lbs but moves surprisingly well.

DeShon Elliott (DB, Texas)

As last week showed, the Bears can’t be considered done in their rebuilding of the secondary. It’s improved but nowhere near championship-caliber and still can’t force turnovers. They need guys who can do that. DeShon Elliott had himself a coming out party in the Rose Bowl. Not only did he make seven tackles against USC, he also picked off golden boy quarterback Darnold twice and came very close to a third. He’s got ideal size at 6’2″, 210 lbs with athleticism and uncanny instincts. He and Eddie Jackson could make for a wonderful pairing.