Chicago Bears Draft: Kerrith Whyte is next diamond in the rough
By James Torres
The Chicago Bears select Kerrith Whyte, the other back out of Florida Atlantic University. Whyte dominated his pro day demonstrating elite athleticism
The Chicago Bears selected former Florida Atlantic running back Kerrith Whyte with its first selection in the seventh round. Whyte did not get an invite to the NFL combine but showed off his elite athleticism at his pro day. He obviously caught the attention of Chicago’s scouting department.
Whyte may have been Devin Singletary’s backup but the do-it-all back’s numbers speak volumes towards his potential. The 5’10” 200-pound running back averaged 6.5 yards/carry and 16 yards/reception while scoring 11 touchdowns in his final season at FAU. He also averaged 130.9 yards/game all-purpose yards for the Owls. He can certainly add to Chicago’s revamped special teams unit that was the only stain on an otherwise terrific season.
The newest addition to Chicago’s roster showed upward progress over the course of his three-year career, yet failed to get an invitation to the NFL’s combine. He was forced to wait until FAU’s pro day to change the course of his professional aspirations. He certainly turned heads with eye-popping numbers across the board.
Whyte ran a 4.36 40-yard dash which would have been the best time for all running backs at this year’s combine. But he didn’t stop there, he continued to impress with an 11′ broad jump, 42″ vertical leap, and benched 225-pounds 21 times. Make no mistake, these are elite numbers and certainly worth a flyer in the seventh round of the draft.
Coach Nagy’s version of the West Coast offense needs versatile weapons. Whyte’s presence provides a triple threat that can be moved all over the field due to his skillset. He should be welcomed with open arms for Chicago’s developing Pro Bowl quarterback Mitchell Trubisky. He may also spell trouble for some unfortunate member of the 53-man roster if they aren’t careful.
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At the very least he can be a quality developmental player that the Bears can rely on in a couple of seasons. This role will allow him to give the NFL’s best defense different looks while preparing for another playoff push. The off-season training program just got a little more interesting.
Until then, stay thirsty and Bear Down.