Chicago Bears 2019 NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Replacing Jordan Howard

Round 2, Pick 49 (via trade with Cleveland Browns)

Following the trade of Howard, many now think the Bears could move up into the second round of this year’s draft in order to find his replacement. I think the Bears will indeed move up, but not for a running back. The thing about this year’s running back class is that it is very deep, and the Bears can get a good player at a later time.

The Cleveland Browns have not held back when it comes to making moves, so if the Bears want to head up into the second round, the Browns could be a likely trade partner. In this scenario, the Bears jump into the second round by sending one of their second-rounders in 2020 along with a 2020 fifth round selection to Cleveland.

Following the move up, I see the Bears adding to their riches at edge rusher. They already have Khalil Mack and Leonard Floyd, but are lacking any depth behind those two. For their defense to continue to ascend (as scary as that sounds), adding to the pass rush is a must.

Chase Winovich would fit in well with this group. He’s a hard-nosed, high-motor player who constantly finds himself in the opposing back field. Over the last two seasons, he’s accumulated 34.5 tackles for loss.

Adding Winovich would solidify the pass rush immediately, while giving the Bears yet another weapon to deploy at Chuck Pagano‘s disposal.