Chicago Bears: Post-Combine/Pre-Free Agency Mock Draft
player. 57. Shaquem Griffin. University of Central Florida. 4. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Linebacker
Pre-combine pick: Daesean Hamilton, WR
If you hadn’t heard about Shaquem Griffin before, odds are after the combine you knew all about him.
He is the definition of ‘success story’. His brother, Shaquill Griffin, was drafted by the Seahawks in the third round in last year’s draft. The funny thing is when UCF was recruiting Shaq, they signed him Shaquem just so that Shaq would sign. Given that hindsight is 20/20, UCF got a steal on National Signing Day.
To put it bluntly, Shaquem dominated the combine. His 40 time (4.38) was faster than a lot of the wide receivers. In fact, it was by far the fastest of the linebackers (Roquan Smith was second at 4.51). But his 20 reps at the bench was more than just inspiring; it was legendary.
As for the player, Griffin is a guy who every team would love to have. The worst case scenario is he turns into an amazing special teamer. Gauging his ceiling is tricky, but a designated pass rusher or on-ball inside linebacker seems like a fair bet.
He will be limited in coverage due to being one-handed (granted he had an impressive 13 passes deflected on 42 targets). However, his speed and athleticism should give him a chance to shine in Vic Fangio’s scheme.
Doubling up at linebacker should be in consideration because the Chicago Bears moved on from Pernell McPhee, Willie Young, and Jerrell Freeman. Also, Sam Acho, Lamarr Houston, and Christian Jones are free agents. Fresh blood at an important spot in the defense is critical.