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2017 NFL Draft: Chicago Bears Late-Season Seven-Round Mock Draft

By Dan Schmelzer

Dec 3, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws the ball in the second half against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the ACC Championship college football game at Camping World Stadium. Clemson Tigers won 42-35. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 3, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws the ball in the second half against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the ACC Championship college football game at Camping World Stadium. Clemson Tigers won 42-35. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports /
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Marshon Lattimore 2017 NFL Draft
Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Marshon Lattimore (2) defends Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Amara Darboh (82) during the third quarter at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /

I would love to give the Bears’ new franchise quarterback some help on the offensive side of the ball, but this roster has issues in a lot of areas. Instead, we fill a major defensive need by landing Ohio State cornerback Marshon Lattimore.

Based on raw ability, Lattimore is undoubtedly a first-round prospect. He has elite-level speed and athleticism that gives him massive upside at the next level. Lattimore is a natural cover corner who typically does a great job in both man and zone coverage.

Lattimore is a great prospect who has legitimate shut-down cornerback upside. That being said, he is not a perfect player. Lattimore struggles with technique at times, showing sloppy footwork in his back pedal. Also, he has struggled to stay on the field on a consistent basis.

Were Lattimore’s injuries random, or is his relatively slight frame an issue? It is hard to say at the moment, but these are the kind of concerns that make an elite talent at an important position a possible day two choice.

The Bears’ cornerback situation is absolutely terrible and they need to address it in the 2017 NFL Draft. Lattimore is a potential number one cornerback who could greatly improve their entire defensive unit.

Make no mistake about it, Lattimore is an elite-level athlete who would be incredible value for the Bears in the early second-round.

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