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2017 NFL Draft Daily Chicago Bears Targets: Michigan Defensive Star Jabrill Peppers

By Luis Felipe Saccini

Mar 6, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive back Jabrill Peppers does a workout drill during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 6, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive back Jabrill Peppers does a workout drill during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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We now look at another 2017 NFL Draft prospect who could be a great selection for the Chicago Bears in the first round.

Yesterday, I’ve said that if Adam Shaheen had played for the Michigan Wolverines, he would have a first round grade in the 2017 NFL Draft. Well, this next player has a first round grade and did play his college career in Ann Arbor. Jabrill Peppers is an extremely talented defensive playmaker who should be on the Chicago Bears’ radar.

Peppers is a showman, he can do anything. The Wolverines used him as a safety, linebacker, running back, punt returner and kickoff returner. Coach Jim Harbaugh even made a pitch count for him as numbers of snaps, so Michigan could count on him in every aspect of the game. He indeed was the heart and soul of his team and he ended the season as a Heisman Trophy finalist.

In the NFL, Peppers will be utilized in the hybrid role of safety and linebacker, that will allow him to make an impact from the first day in the blitz game and in coverage. He was the first player ever to do combine drills at both linebacker and defensive backs. That just shows how passionate this kid is for football and how willing he will be to give everything he has to help the team that drafts him.

I personally see Peppers as a strong safety at the next level. If someone takes Peppers with the intent of using him as a strong safety, he will thrive in the NFL. His combination of skills gives him a chance to be an elite-level player at the strong safety position.

For Peppers to become a Chicago Bear, something will have to happen with the 2017 NFL Draft order. He won’t come without a trade.

Next: Bears 7-Round Mock Draft Including Two Big Trades

There are two possible scenarios that I could see happening. First, a trade down from the third overall pick. The Bears could trade down from three, pick up extra draft capital and snag Peppers in the middle of the round. This scenario would be amazing. I could also see the Bears trading back into the first round to specifically target Peppers if he falls to the end of the first.

Either way, Jabrill Peppers is a talented 2017 NFL Draft prospect who needs to be on Ryan Pace’s radar.

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