Chicago Bears 2018 NFL Draft targets to watch: Ohio State vs. Oklahoma

Denzel Ward (Cornerback), Ohio State

Ohio State has produced three first round picks at cornerback in the last two drafts (Marshon Lattimore, Gaeron Conley and Eli Apple). Ward is on pace to be the next Ohio State cornerback taken in the first round, and many believe that he is the best of the bunch.

Although he’s a first year starter, Ward is exceptionally athletic and polished, and will thrive as a star and leader in the secondary.

Oklahoma’s offense was the best in the country last season, with both quarterback Baker Mayfield and wide receiver Dede Westbrook finishing in the top-five of Heisman voting. Although Westbrook is gone, Mayfield is still a premier quarterback no matter who he’s throwing the ball to. Mayfield completed his first 18 passes in a 56-7 routing of UTEP on Saturday, proving the previous point.

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

Ward is one of the quickest cornerbacks in the country, and will need to use his speed in order to make plays on deep throws downfield.

Eliminating the passing game for the Sooners would put Ohio State in a great position, and this starts with the playmaking of Denzel Ward. Ward will be expected to make a few big plays in crucial situations on Saturday night, as this game is very evenly matched, and will be close throughout.

As touched upon last week, defense will be the main focus of next year’s draft for the Bears. Cornerback is arguably the Bear’s worst position on defense, and will likely be the Bears top position target in the draft.

Ward may not be the top cornerback prospect in the draft, but could be the best fit for the Bears. As a natural leader with above average speed and athleticism, Ward could become a cornerstone for the Bears’ defense of the future.

This year will be crucial for Ward’s draft stock. With this year being his first year starting, Denzel Ward has a lot to prove. Ward looked good last season behind two first rounders, but now Ward needs to show that he can play at the level of those two first rounders. The Bears will likely pick between picks 5-15, and with a big year, Ward can expect to get picked around there.