Chicago Bears: Top 5 must-have value prospects in 2019 NFL Draft

Edge Rusher Jalen Jelks, Oregon

Projected Round: 5-6

This is one guy I have had a hard time figuring out over the past month or two. There are dozens of outlets that are totally split on Jalen Jelks and where exactly he should be drafted. Some have him projected as a fourth rounder, which I think is far too high. Others, though, have him all the way down in the seventh round.

Let’s just say this: If he’s still on the board entering the sixth round, Pace should be formulating a plan and making some calls. If Pace can get a feel for where Jelks may go at that point, he’s got to make a move and go up and get him. Jelks is worth a sixth rounder, and would be an absolute steal in the seventh.

Here is the interesting thing about Jelks: He currently stands 6-foot-5, 255 pounds and will line up as an edge rusher in the pros. But, he’s played defensive line for Oregon in the past and actually played really, really well up front.

In 2017, playing on the line, Jelks came up with career highs in sacks (7.0), tackles for loss (15.5) and passes defended (seven). Last year, he made the switch to linebacker.

Jelks is a strong player with a high motor and his experience up front shows as a pass rusher. Chicago could use one more at this position, and Jelks is a phenomenal value in the last two rounds. If he makes it that far, I’d hope Pace goes and lands him.