Chicago Bears: Their history in drafts with no 1st rounder
By Erik Lambert
![LAKE FOREST, IL - JANUARY 09: General manager Ryan Pace of the Chicago Bears speaks to the media during an introductory press conference for new head coach Matt Nagy at Halas Hall on January 9, 2018 in Lake Forest, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) LAKE FOREST, IL - JANUARY 09: General manager Ryan Pace of the Chicago Bears speaks to the media during an introductory press conference for new head coach Matt Nagy at Halas Hall on January 9, 2018 in Lake Forest, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/a8aa79447cca69b82ee992376c5348333fd1e47a57ac3da600c16595a38ec01c.jpg)
2009 – Grade: B+
Former GM Jerry Angelo actually showcased some decent prowess in drafts without a 1st rounder towards the end of his run in Chicago. His 2009 group wasn’t as prolific as the 2006 but it may have been more impressive. For one he also had no 2nd round picks to use and yet he still managed to secure two eventual Pro Bowlers in defensive tackle Henry Melton and wide receiver Johnny Knox.
They also got cornerback D.J. Moore who had 10 interceptions in three seasons and guard Lance Louis who was a capable reserve and spot starter. What held it back from a higher grade were their two 3rd round choices, defensive tackle Jarron Gilbert and wide receiver Juaquin Iglesias. Both were monumental flops who played a combined six games in a Bears uniform.
Considering they could’ve had Mike Wallace or Louis Vasquez among others, it was a big missed opportunity.