Chicago Bears 2019 NFL Draft: Pre-Combine wish list
By Ryan Heckman
Cornerback Montre Hartage, Northwestern
If the Bears choose to add a corner in this draft, I would expect them to add one later. One kid who wouldn’t have to travel far from home would be Montre Hartage out of Northwestern. The senior corner has the potential to be a solid depth add, at the very least.
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I’d like to see the Bears try Hartage in the slot, or even at the safety position. The reason why is due to his big play ability. He isn’t necessarily as aggressive in man coverage, but he has a tendency to make big plays on the ball. If Hartage gets his hands on the football, he’s likely coming up with the pick.
Last season, Hartage came up with a career-high 11 passes defensed while picking off two passes. Over the last three seasons with Northwestern, Hartage came up with nine interceptions in total — five coming two years ago in 2016.
Hartage has a strong ability to cut off routes before they’re completed. He’s great at making those jumps, which is why I think he’d fit well in the slot. He lacks a bit of decision-making skill when it comes to getting to a ball carrier, but with some coaching I think he could become much more decisive.
Hartage would be a fan-pleasing pick, sure, but I think he’d grow into a fine NFL player with the Bears.