Chicago Bears: 10 viable draft prospects to watch at the combine

CB Denzel Ward, Ohio State

There is something to be said about the so-called “top cornerback” in every year’s draft. Over the last couple of years, that label has proven to not only be true, but to lead team’s to making one heck of a pick.

Look at the guy who came just a year before Denzel Ward — Marshon Lattimore. I think he’s done just fine for himself in the NFL, and that was as a rookie.

A true shutdown corner is the type of player you not only invest a high draft pick in with confidence, but lots of money. Just take a look at some of today’s top pros at the position, and you will understand why the importance to get someone like Ward cannot be overstated.

Over his last two seasons with the Buckeyes, Ward allowed opposing quarterbacks to complete just 32 percent of their passes when targeting him. That is absurd.

Not only do you rarely see a catch against the guy, but he has a knack for the ball as well. To put it in perspective, he tied Lattimore for the team lead in pass breakups two years ago with nine. Last season, Ward notched 15 passes defensed.

First priority before the draft is to not allow Kyle Fuller out of town. But secondly, if the Bears want to ensure they have themselves a lockdown threat in the secondary, Ward would be a fantastic choice if he was to be there at eighth overall.