Chicago Bears 2015 Draft Prospects: First Round Flexibility

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The Bears draft a defensive tackle 

The Bears need a big man in the middle who, in the 3-4, can take up space and be responsible for two gaps. If he can be a disruption in the backfield, it could take a lot of pressure off the secondary.

Early on, Danny Shelton of Washington was the favorite of almost all mock drafts. He is as big as a bear (!), but also has great quickness for a big guy. He plays with a high motor, and is a favorite among his teammates, so he’ll be great in the locker room.

If the Bears go with Shelton, it would be a good pick. He can be an anchor for the defensive line for years to come, much like Vince Wilfork. He has been compared to Wilfork, but let’s not get carried away just yet.

Even though Shelton would be a good pick, the Bears could go another way, and still pick up a good defensive lineman later.

Another PAC-12 player, Ellis McCarthy, out of UCLA, is a very good pick as well, and he could be had in the third round or so.

McCarthy is another large, quick player with good balance and strength. He is also very mature and has a great work ethic.

McCarthy spent most of his collegiate career as a reserve, but UCLA had plenty of pro prospects on the defensive line, so that is not a concern. As with most big nose tackles, weight is an issue. When in shape, he has the strength to bull rush offensive linemen.

There is also Carl Davis out of Iowa, who is a mammoth man, measuring in at 6-foot-5 and weighing 320 pounds. He also has a great blend of strength, size and athleticism. He could be available in the third or fourth round.

While Shelton is a good player, the Bears could get another player to man the middle of the line later in the draft, and they could grab a better athlete in the first round.

Next: The Bears draft a cornerback