Chicago Bears: 7-round mock draft 3.0 (with trades!)

Pick made by Ryan Heckman @RyanHeckmanFS

The Bears will not escape the draft without bringing in at least two linebackers, and I think they go with one early, as I mentioned with Davenport. The later rounds could bring their second linebacker, which in this case would be Andre Smith out of North Carolina.

If any of you know much about Smith, I know what you’re thinking. We don’t need any more players with injury concerns. It’s true, the Bears have been decimated by injuries over the last few years, especially at the core of their linebacking group. But, Smith’s body of work before going down early in 2017 is undeniable.

Over his 2016 campaign, Smith compiled 113 tackles in 13 games. He added six tackles for loss and three passes defended. The one thing you can say, without a doubt, is that the kid sticks his nose to the football.

Smith is one of those throwback linebackers who might not have breaking speed but ensures he finds the ballcarrier nine times out of ten. At the end of the play, you can rest assured knowing that he is either in on the tackle or very close by.

Smith gets off blocks quickly and plays stronger than most. He’s physical and clearly does not like to lose individual matchups. He’s just a natural-born football player with a relentless style of play.

As a sixth-round pick, the Bears are hoping to land a guy who can compete for a backup position and contribute on special teams to begin with. Smith could do just that, if not more.