Chicago Bears: 3 prospects to watch in 2018
Clelin Ferrell — Defensive End/Edge, Clemson
Clelin Ferrell surprised many by deciding to return to Clemson for the 2018 season. Many projected him as a top-15 pick in the 2018 draft, but he elected to return to what should be a stacked defensive line for Clemson. Currently, the Tigers have four defensive linemen projected to go in the first round of the 2019 Draft.
That is ridiculous.
More from Da Windy City
- 3 takeaways from Chicago Blackhawks shootout loss to Nashville
- Chicago Cubs in the middle of chaos that is Shohei Ohtani’s free agency
- The Chicago Cubs are on a roller coaster of emotions chasing Shohei Ohtani
- Chicago Bears quietly compiling list of head coaching candidates
- Chicago White Sox News: Erick Fedde signs two-year deal
As I mentioned earlier, the hype train has already left the station with Christian Wilkins, Dexter Lawrence, Austin Bryant and Ferrell aboard. While some mock drafts have Ferrell selected last out of this group, he very likely could be the best of the bunch.
Had Ferrell entered the 2018 Draft, he would have been a perfect target for the Chicago Bears. After another season honing his craft in the ACC, that is unlikely to change. Ferrell would address arguably the Bears’ biggest need at edge rusher.
Like Rashan Gary, Ferrell stands 6-foot-5 but is a little bit leaner at only 260 pounds. However, his best skill is one that is in high demand in the NFL — getting to the quarterback. Without question, the Bears need someone who can do just that.
While they have players who can clog the middle, they lack a player who can consistently get pressure on and sack the quarterback. The Bears hope Leonard Floyd can be that player. He certainly has the talent to be that guy, but so far, injuries and inconsistency have plagued him.
Without question, Ferrell could be the player they are looking for. He uses a variety of moves to get in the backfield. He truly is a triple threat. Ferrell has the quickness to blow by his opponent, the strength to bull-rush him, and the technique to employ a variety of moves to beat his man.
The thought of adding a guy like Ferrell opposite of Floyd has a ton of appeal. They say a rising tide lifts all boats. Well, an effective pass rush can do the same. Getting pressure on the quarterback makes your defensive backs better since they don’t have to cover the receivers as long. Pressure on the quarterback is invaluable to a defense which is why the Bears need to make it a priority. With that being the case, Ferrell will most certainly be on their radar.
Next: Chicago Bears 2018 defensive projections
Bottom Line
Granted, it’s way too early to speculate who might be a realistic target for the Bears in 2019. However, simply by matching up their needs with the players available, the three mentioned above should get considerable attention.