Bears: 5 realistic QB options in the 2020 NFL Draft
Jalen Hurts
I debated whether to even include Jalen Hurts on this list, and not because of his talent, but because of the likelihood that he will be available late in the first round for the Bears to even attempt to trade up for him.
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However, after looking at other how many other quarterback-needy teams will be looking to draft a quarterback, it seems there is at least a chance Hurts hangs around with Tua Tagovaiola, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, and Jake Fromm being candidates to go before him.
So for now, we’ll consider him a viable option and what an intriguing one he would be. Hurts is extremely athletic and very underrated as a passer. He was pretty good while at Alabama but has reached another stratosphere since arriving at Oklahoma under the direction of Lincoln Riley. In 2016 (15 games) and 2017 (14 games) at Bama, he threw for 2,780 and 2,081 yards respectively. In just 7 games this year, he’s already thrown for 2,074 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions.
The question will be whether that improvement is a result of his natural progression or Riley’s scheme? That remains to be seen, but what is undeniable is his mental toughness. Despite losing his starting role to Tua, he remained the consummate professional, ultimately helping Alabama win another championship before transferring. Since doing so, he has shown perseverance, leadership, and played outstanding football en route to making Oklahoma national title contenders themselves. If Hurts is available late, he is another quarterback who is worth moving up for.