Chicago Bears 2018 NFL Draft targets to watch: Clemson vs. Louisville

Christian Wilkins (Defensive Tackle), Clemson

Christian Wilkins is one of the top defensive tackles in the country. One of the key members of last year’s championship team, Wilkins enters this season as the leader on Clemson’s defense. Wilkins has shown up in big games throughout his career, and will once again be in the spotlight on Saturday night.

Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson is the best dual-threat quarterback in the country, and will certainly look to create opportunities with his legs throughout the game. With Wilkins being the Tigers top run-stopper, he will need to play a big role in breaking through and stopping Jackson.

In addition, Wilkins and the rest of the Clemson line will need to successfully blitz Jackson and keep him under pressure. If the Tigers can contain Jackson and limit his opportunities, Louisville will have a hard time winning this game.

Christian Wilkins is a proven player. A two-year starter, Wilkins enters his third year with little left to prove. However, Wilkins needs to repeat his previous success in order to maintain his high draft stock. Wilkins is the type of player that can turn an entire defense around but needs to show consistency and durability in order to convince NFL scouts.

The Bears recently resigned defensive end Akiem Hicks to a three-year extension. Despite this, the Bears still have question marks at tackle, with Eddie Goldman and Jonathan Bullard‘s issues of inconsistency. Wilkins will likely be available for the Bears in the top-10 and is a very realistic option. If everything goes the way it could and should for both sides, Christian Wilkins could be a Chicago Bear next spring.