Chicago Bears NFL Draft Sleeper: Malik Reed – edge rusher

Fantastic off the edge

Malik Reed is an incredibly intriguing prospect for a variety of reasons. However, chief among them is the fact that he only recently began playing the outside linebacker (OLB) position this past year.

Prior to the 2018 season, Reed played primarily as a defensive end with his hand in the dirt. However, last year he made the switch to OLB, playing upright. At 6-foot-1 and 235 pounds, he has the frame more suitable to play the OLB position in the NFL. The position also takes advantage of one of his best attributes, which is his speed.

Over his college career, Reed was incredibly productive, and statistically, was one of the best pass rushers in college football.

According to Pro Football Focus, Reed ranked third among draft-eligible pass rush defenders and interior linemen in pressures per pass rush snap at 21 percent. For comparison, top-five projected pick Josh Allen was second at 23.4 percent. He finished with 51 total pressures for a pass-rush grade of 89.2. His overall grade of 90.3 was good for best in the Mountain West Conference.

While Reed’s stats are impressive, numbers can be sliced and diced in many ways. However, what is really impressive about Reed is just how impactful his stats really were.

He finished his college career with 198 tackles (38.5 for a loss), 22 sacks, and an amazing 11 forced fumbles. No doubt that ability to turn the ball over will fit right into the Bears’ defense, which led the NFL in takeaways last season.

The other thing that stands out about Reed is his motor. He never takes off a play and is always going full speed. He gives maximum effort on every play no matter the situation — another trait that will suit the Bears and their culture quite well.