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Chicago Bears Make Unique Selection at No. 3 in Recent 2017 NFL Mock Draft

By Dan Schmelzer

December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Marshon Lattimore (2) tackles Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) in the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Marshon Lattimore (2) tackles Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) in the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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A unique selection for the Chicago Bears in a recent 2017 NFL Mock Draft.

The Chicago Bears have the third overall selection in the 2017 NFL Draft. Picking that high, there are only so many prospects who the Bears are going to consider. The top-tier talents are relatively easy to spot in a draft class.

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In a majority of mock drafts, we see Jonathan Allen, Deshaun Watson, DeShone Kizer, Mitch Trubisky or Jamal Adams going to the Bears at three. Those are all perfectly reasonable selections, but it is always fun to see something different.

In his latest 2017 NFL mock draft for NFL.com, Lance Zierlein gives the Chicago Bears Stanford defensive lineman Solomon Thomas with the third overall pick. Here is what Zierlein had to say about the choice:

"Chicago could use a great pass rusher, and Solomon Thomas is extremely unique in that he can rush as a defensive end, defensive tackle, or 3-4 outside linebacker."

I am not sure that Thomas would be the best fit for the Bears. However, he is clearly a unique talent. Thomas does get blown off of the ball when defending the run on the inside. That is obvious an issue. But his combination of quickness and athleticism makes him an elite interior pass rusher.

I do not think he would be able to play much defensive line in the Bears’ three-man front. However, he could certainly make an impact as an outside linebacker. I could see Thomas thriving in a role on the outside, using his unique skill-set to set the edge against the run and create pressure on the passer.

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Then on obvious passing downs, Thomas could still kick inside and overwhelm opposing interior linemen with his speed. Personally, if the Bears are going to go this route, I would rather just see them take Jonathan Allen. However, it is interesting to think about Thomas being a fit.

He is certainly an interesting player who needs to be on the Chicago Bears’ radar.

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