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Chicago Bears: Logical 2017 NFL Draft Targets at Each Position

By Dan Schmelzer

Oct 15, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers safety Jamal Adams (33) celebrates after picking up a fumble during the third quarter of a game against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers safety Jamal Adams (33) celebrates after picking up a fumble during the third quarter of a game against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jonathan Allen
Sep 10, 2016; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports /

Defensive Line

Jonathan Allen, Alabama: 6-foot-3, 286 pounds, Projected Round: 1

I wouldn’t call defensive line a massive need for the Chicago Bears. Akiem Hicks is an absolute star up front and Eddie Goldman could be at nose tackle if he can stay healthy. Jonathan Bullard had a disappointing rookie season but he still has a ton of upside and Mitch Unrein is a rock solid starter. I wouldn’t say the Bears are loaded up front, but it is certainly a nice group.

Add a guy like Allen to the mix and they instantly become elite. Allen was arguably the best player in college football last season, dominating on the defensive line for Alabama. His film is absolutely incredible as Allen shows the ability to dominate against the run and in the pass rush.

However, his athletic testing leaves plenty to be desired. Allen’s upside is probably a bit limited but he is a good football player who could help take the Chicago Bears defense to the next level. He will be under consideration with the third overall pick.

Jaleel Johnson, Iowa: 6-foot-3, 316 pounds, Projected Round: 3

Jaleel Johnson was extremely productive in college, consistently making plays in the middle of the line of scrimmage. He is an elite run stuffer who also shows some interior pass rush ability. Similar to Allen, Johnson’s overall athleticism leaves plenty to be desired, probably limiting his upside.

However, he is a big and strong man who fires off of the ball quickly and is always working hard. Jaleel Johnson would be a nice player to add to the defensive line mix.

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