3 underrated 2022 NFL Draft needs for the Chicago Bears
By Ryan Heckman
The Chicago Bears need to address the safety position in the 2022 NFL Draft
Currently, the Bears are rolling into the 2022 season with Eddie Jackson, DeAndre Houston-Carson and newly-signed Dane Cruikshank at the safety position. The Bears could end up starting Jackson and one of Houston-Carson or Cruikshank, but an upgrade opposite Jackson shouldn’t be out of the question.
Cruikshank brings versatility to the Bears’ defense, after Tennessee used him in a variety of ways last year. He could come in and play in dime packages, as he did for the Titans. He could also end up starting. He’s a physical player, which is good. But, is he dependable enough to be that key starter?
Some mocks have had the Bears being able to pick up Illinois safety Kerby Joseph in the second round, or even a guy like Maryland’s Nick Cross in the third or fourth — if they traded back.
There are some intriguing prospects for the Bears to consider, who could come in and start right away. Would Chicago sacrifice one of those second or third rounders on safety? Maybe. It all depends on if they are in position to get a receiver or offensive lineman they like. But, guys like Joseph or Cross would be excellent additions.