2022 NFL Draft: Chicago Bears add WRs, OLine in 7-Round Mock

Round 5, Pick 146: Justyn Ross, WR, Clemson

The Chicago Bears nearly have back-to-back picks in the fifth round with just the Carolina Panthers between two selections. This could allow them to explore their options a bit more, but they also have to be mindful of which direction the Panthers go between them.

Here, they go with a true value pick. Originally in the conversation to be a first round selection a few years ago, Justyn Ross‘ career was derailed by a spinal condition. Ross returned and had a decent season, but a foot injured that required surgery will once again drop his draft stock.

For a team like Chicago, Ross presents a low-risk, high-reward option this late in the draft. The Bears are going to need options at wide receiver and adding another 6-foot-4 weapon is intriguing. Especially when that pick has shown his high potential in the past.

The obvious key for Ross will be his health. With few selections the Bears could opt to go a safer route, but the upside of Ross if healthy is hard to ignore. Players with stat lines like his often don’t fall to the fifth round, so while there’s risk it could be a great chance for Chicago to get a steal in the 2022 NFL Draft.