5 Chicago Bears WR targets who impressed at 2022 NFL Combine

Wide receiver Calvin Austin proved why the Chicago Bears should draft him at the 2022 NFL Combine

Whether or not the Bears decide to cut ties with Tarik Cohen or re-sign Jakeem Grant, Calvin Austin would be a dynamite pickup in this year’s draft. The Memphis wide receiver enters this class as one of the smallest guys in the draft, but has electrifying talent.

Austin measured at just under 5-foot-8, weighing 173 pounds. But, his size didn’t stop him from completely dominating this year’s Combine.

Austin ran a 4.32 in his 40-yard dash, notched a 39-inch vertical jump and a broad jump of 11-foot-3. That last number might be most insane, as it’s twice Austin’s height. According to NFL Network, Austin is the shortest player to ever post an 11-foot broad jump since 2003.

All three of Austin’s big scores were good for top-3 amongst wide receivers.

Austin would come to the Bears as more of the “offensive weapon” type; a guy who can be given the ball in a variety of ways and make plays. Over the past two seasons with Memphis, Austin caught 137 passes for 2,202 yards and 19 touchdowns. He’s someone the Bears would want on the field as much as possible, due to his ability to take anything to the house.

Austin improved his draft stock big time over the Combine. Prior to his performance, he was being mocked in the middle rounds, anywhere from Round 3 to Round 6. Now, he’s definitely closer to the Round 3 status than the latter.