Chicago Bears add desperately needed draft picks in this 2022 mock draft

The Chicago Bears make another trade in this mock to pick up another draft pick.

In the mock simulation, the Arizona Cardinals called up to move up a few spots in the sixth round. The Bears could use as much draft pick volume as they can so picking up a seventh-round pick and moving back a few spots in the sixth round makes sense.

Plus, moving down a few spots and getting a seventh-round pick gives the Bears two shots at a developmental player. That is what teams are targeting in these final rounds of the drafts–players with traits or production that can be developed into steals of the draft.

Once the Bears were back on the clock in the sixth round, the secondary was addressed.

Bland possess the size desired for a cornerback in Eberflus’ defensive scheme. He is 6’1″ and ran a 4.45 40-yard dash on his pro day.

He played just one season at the FBS level. Before transferring to Fresno State, he played two seasons at Sacramento State.

He had two interceptions and five pass breakups for the Bulldogs in 2021. His best game came against Boise State where he had six tackles and an interception.

Bland’s production shows he will not give up a lot of big plays.

Bland has a lot of upside but will need some time to develop. He can buy that time by contributing on special teams. He can return kicks and the Bears need a kick returner now that Pro Bowler Jakeem Grant is gone.

Thomas provides great value for a seventh-round pick. He can come in right away and contribute on special teams. The Bears lost some core special team players so getting help in that part of the game is needed.

He also provides versatility with his size. At 6’1″ and 212 pounds, he has the size to play the SAM linebacker when the Bears deploy the traditional 4-3 front.

Thomas did have four career interceptions at Georgia Tech but he is more of a strong safety than a free safety.

He also has kick returning ability. It is how he got on the field during his freshman year.

Thomas can keep himself in the league by contributing to special teams. If he can do that, he has the tools to become a contributor on defense either by playing the SAM linebacker or as a backup safety. That is about as much as you can expect from a seventh-round pick.