2017 NFL Draft: Chicago Bears Hold Pre-Draft Visit with Top Cornerback Marshon Lattimore
The Chicago Bears met with top 2017 NFL Draft cornerback prospect Marshon Lattimore. Is he an option for the team with the third overall pick?
Who will the Chicago Bears select with the third overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft? That question will likely remain a major mystery until draft day, but they undoubtedly have many top-tier choices.
The most likely scenarios appear to be quarterback Deshaun Watson, defensive lineman Solomon Thomas or safety Jamal Adams. However, I certainly would not rule out Alabama defenders Jonathan Allen or Rueben Foster. Another interesting name to keep an eye on is Ohio State cornerback Marshon Lattimore.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com, the Bears are having Lattimore in for a private visit to Halas Hall on Monday.
#OSU CB Marshon Lattimore, perhaps the draft’s top CB, is visiting the #Bears today, source said. They pick No. 3.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 3, 2017
Lattimore is commonly considered to be the top cornerback prospect in the 2017 NFL draft class. He is an extremely talented player who has legitimate shut-down ability on the outside.
Cornerback was clearly a weakness for the Bears defense last season. Tracy Porter was the only even semi-reliable option on the roster. That being said, the Bears did address their cornerback issues this offseason, signing both Marcus Cooper and Prince Amukamara.
Between Porter, Cooper, Amukamara, Kyle Fuller, Cre’von LeBlanc and Deiondre’ Hall, the Bears cornerback situation as it sits is not awful. However, they clearly lack a number one cornerback.
Is Lattimore Worth the Third Pick?
Someone like Cooper or Hall could potentially grow into the role, but that is far from expected. Lattimore is a true number NFL cornerback who has the pure ability to be one of the best in the game.
Cornerback is not commonly considered one of the highest valued positions in the NFL. Teams picking in the top three like the Bears are in the 2017 NFL Draft, are commonly hoping to land an elite quarterback, pass rusher or pass protector. However, with an obvious emphasis on the passing game in the league, taking an elite cornerback would not be a bad move.
Next: Bears Complete Seven-Round 2017 NFL Mock Draft
If the Bears like what they see out of Lattimore on top (it is hard not to), then taking Lattimore with the third overall pick would not be a bad move. It would be fairly unorthodox, but Lattimore is a playmaker at an extremely important position. He would worth the selection.