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

Jordan Thomas (Cornerback), Oklahoma

Jordan Thomas was one of the biggest breakout players in the nation last season, seeing his production soar amidst a season in which Thomas led the Sooners with 17 passes broke up. Thomas had been a big producer before, but made notable improvements and led the Oklahoma secondary.

Thomas road to success hasn’t been crystal clear. Thomas was suspended twice last season for team violations, and has been arrested twice as well (although charges were dropped the second time). Thomas has shown massive upside and potential, but needs to prove that he can stay on the field and be a leader in the locker room.

Thomas’ role has now became bigger, as fellow starting cornerback Jordan Parker suffered a torn ACL in last weeks’ win. Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett is one of the most accurate passers in the nation, thus Thomas will need to capitalize on Barrett’s few mistakes.

Barrett got off to a slow start against Indiana last week, and if the Sooners can capitalize on early mistakes, they might be able to distance themselves far enough early on.

Jordan Thomas needs a clean season to solidify himself as a first round pick. This means few mistakes, no suspensions, and high level production. It’s no secret that the Bears need a cornerback, and Thomas certainly has the skill set to be the Bears first round pick.

NFL teams are becoming less and less tolerant when it comes to off the field problems, making Thomas a risky pick.

If Thomas can prove his worth on and off the field, there’s no reason why he can’t be one of the top cornerbacks in the draft. Former first round cornerback Kyle Fuller is on a presumably short leash following a few rough seasons, which could open up a more dire need for a cornerback. Thomas shows high upside and potential, but it’s going to come down to weather the Bears are willing to take a risk on another cornerback.