Chicago Bears: Five potential first-round targets in 2021 NFL Draft

Rashod Bateman, WR, Minnesota

With Allen Robinson under the franchise tag and trade rumors circling Anthony Miller, the wide receiver position becomes a big need for the Chicago Bears as we near the 2021 NFL Draft. Not unlike the 2020 class, this year’s receiver group is loaded with talent. There could be as many as six guys taken in the first round, leaving the opportunity for several big-time talents to be available for the Bears with their 20th overall pick. The name I like the most as a target for Chicago is former Minnesota star, Rashod Bateman.

Bateman was an electric player for the Golden Gophers, as he completed his career with nearly 2,400 yards receiving and 19 touchdowns. He was at his best when the lights were the brightest too, as Bateman averaged 119 yards per game against ranked opponents over his last two seasons.

A savvy route-runner with an advanced release package, Bateman can beat you off the line of scrimmage without elite speed, but still has plenty of juice to separate at the top of his routes. He’s got plucky hands and has been known to go up and get it in contested-catch situations. He isn’t limited to just outside or slot work, as he can do damage wherever he lines up on the football field.

Adding Rashod Bateman to the current group of Chicago Bears receivers would provide necessary depth to the position, while also adding an insurance policy going forward. He and Darnell Mooney would make for an exciting young duo to build on if Robinson and Miller aren’t in the team’s future plans.