Chicago Bears 2018 NFL Draft targets to watch: Alabama vs. Florida State

 Minkah Fitzpatrick, FS, Alabama

Coming off a breakout season in which he recorded six interceptions, Minkah Fitzpatrick enters his junior year as the biggest name on the Alabama defense. Fitzpatrick will need to make an even bigger impact this season after the departure of Ravens’ first-round cornerback Marlon Humphrey and Bears’ fourth-round safety Eddie Jackson.

An All-American last season as a sophomore, Fitzpatrick solidified himself as one of the best defensive backs in the nation. Facing off against a dynamic Florida State offense that has shown through the years that it’s not afraid to throw the ball deep, Fitzpatrick will have plenty of opportunities to shine under the spotlight.

Many NFL scouts believe that Fitzpatrick is a top-ten caliber talent in the upcoming draft. With all eyes on him as the as the star of one of the best defenses in the country, Fitzpatrick will need to prove that he can come through in the biggest games possible. Fitzpatrick recorded three interceptions in a game against Arkansas last season and recorded a key interception against Washington in the Peach Bowl. Now, all Fitzpatrick needs to show is that he can do this as the leader on defense.

With the Bears surprisingly not addressing the secondary early in the draft and entering the season thin at safety, Fitzpatrick is instantly a top target for next year’s draft. With the impact play making ability that is so sought after in today’s NFL, Fitzpatrick can transform the Bears defense into a force to be reckoned with for years to come.

The only real thing in the way of the Chicago Bears picking Fitzpatrick is his availability. The Bears might not be a playoff team, but still do expect to win more than three games. With a repeat of last season, Fitzpatrick almost definitely won’t be available past the top eight. With this aside, Fitzpatrick is a big player to watch for Bears fans on Saturday night.