Chicago Bears 2017 NFL Draft: Ranking Top Five First Round Options

4. Solomon Thomas, EDGE, Stanford

The Chicago Bears have a nice collection of talent in their defensive front seven. Akiem Hicks and Eddie Goldman lead an impressive defensive line with a lot of upside. Jerrell Freeman and Danny Trevathan (if healthy) combine for a strong starting duo at inside linebacker.

On top of that, the Bears have a great collection of players on the edge. Last year’s first round pick Leonard Floyd is an absolute stud pass rusher in the making. Pernell McPhee is a strong starter opposite of him if he can stay healthy and guys like Willie Young, Lamarr Houston and Sam Acho provide quality depth.

I would not say that the Bears need to add another pass rusher, but it never hurts to have multiple guys who can get after the quarterback. Aside from Myles Garrett, Solomon Thomas is probably the best edge defender in this class. Heck, he could easily be considered the second best overall prospect in this draft class.

Thomas is an athletic and powerful defensive end who shows great versatility and playmaking ability up front. He is a stout run defender who can also create a consistent pass rush off the edge. While Thomas may be a liability against the run when lined up inside, he can certainly create pressure from the interior as well.

Thomas is an extremely talented player who should be under consideration at number three. If the Bears simply want to take the best player available, Thomas could be the guy. However, the lack of true need at the position makes this a touch less likely than the guys above him on this list.