Chicago Bears NFL Draft 2021: 5 underrated first-round targets

Underrated first-round targets for the Chicago Bears: EDGE Gregory Rousseau, Miami

The one position you won’t see talked about as much when it comes to the Bears’ first-round pick is at edge rusher, and for good reason. The team has more money wrapped up in their two starters there than they do with any two other players at the same position. Khalil Mack and Robert Quinn should be one of the best duos in football, but last year, both failed to meet expectations.

Mack should be around for a while, yet, but if the Bears want to move on from Quinn after this season, they will need a replacement. Look no further than the ultra-talented Gregory Rousseau out of Miami.

Chicago’s defense has to get to the quarterback this year. There are no excuses, and if the Bears end up with Rousseau (a sure fire first rounder) then they would have to get him on the field. This kid is a pass rusher through and through. Although he opted out of the 2020 season, Rousseau’s 2019 campaign was more than enough to put his name on a pedestal.

In that season, he racked up 19.5 tackles for a loss, including 15.5 sacks. Rousseau also forced a pair of fumbles that year, to boot.

The Bears’ defense took a step back last season, and quite honestly hasn’t looked the same since 2018. This is a team needing to get back to rushing the quarterback and forcing turnovers. Rousseau may not be your first thought at pick number 20, but he would solidify the Bears’ front seven rotation as one of the very best in football.