Chicago Bears: Way too early 7-round 2018 NFL mock draft

With Jordan Howard on the roster and the Bears drafting Tarik Cohen in the 2017 draft, taking a running back may seem odd here. That being said, general manager Ryan Pace had taken a running back in each of his first three drafts with the Bears (Jeremy Langford in 2015, Howard in 2016 and Cohen in 2017). If he sees value at the position in the middle rounds, I do not think Pace will hesitate to take a running back.

More from Chicago Bears

• Chicago Bears quietly compiling list of head coaching candidates
• Next Chicago Bears starting quarterback makes Bowl Game decision
• Chicago Bears appear in the hunt while on track for the first pick
• Chicago Bears: They are who we thought they were
• Chicago Bears Rumors: Kevin Warren to oversee football operations

In the middle of the fourth round, Iowa running back Akrum Wadley is undoubtedly a value. Wadley is a quick and elusive back who shows fantastic burst with the ball in his hands. He has great ball carrier vision, elite speed and ridiculous natural tackle breaking ability.

Wadley’s speed makes him a threat to take it to the house from anywhere on the field. But he also shows the ability to pick up the tough yards on the inside. A true home run threat who can excel in short yardage as well, there is a lot to like about Wadley’s game.

Perhaps most importantly as it relates to the Bears, Wadley is a fantastic receiver out of the backfield. He does a fantastic job of creating space against linebackers and safeties and shows natural catching ability. Make no mistake about it, Akrum Wadley is the whole package at the running back position.

The Chicago Bears do not need Wadley, but he would be a great player to have around. Early in his career, he would be an ideal change of pace back for Howard. However, he could grow into so much more.

It feels like a lifetime away right now, but Howard will be a free agent after the 2019 season. If he continues to dominate the NFL, he will command a big contract in free agency. If the Bears look ahead by taking Wadley, they would still have him at an extremely low price for two seasons if they do not bring Howard back. Simply put, Wadley is an incredible value in the fourth round.