Chicago Bears Draft: Best options at no. 9 outside of OL

Chicago Bears, Jalen Carter (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Chicago Bears, Jalen Carter (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MARCH 05: Bijan Robinson of Texas participates in a drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 05, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MARCH 05: Bijan Robinson of Texas participates in a drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 05, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

2. Bijan Robinson

Texas running back Bijan Robinson is being touted as one of the best running back prospects in recent memory. Robinson is seemingly able to do everything, and has a strong build while running a 4.46 40-yard dash. He is extremely explosive, with tremendous acceleration that leaves defenders in the dust. Additionally, his agility and acceleration allows for him to quickly change direction while maintaining his speed. Finally, he is able to sustain hits, as he has solid balance after contact.

This run against Oklahoma shows how good of a player Bijan Robinson really is. He is able to change direction, break tackles, and seamlessly navigate through an entire defense on his way to a touchdown. Considering all these positives, the question remains: how could he fall down to the 9th spot?

The answer is simple. Bijan Robinson is caught in a paradigm shift in the NFL, where the importance of running backs is minimal. There have been seemingly countless situations in which running backs have proven to be replaceable, and the usage of a top pick on this position is looked down upon. Robinson is unfortunately in the league at the wrong time, as a player of his caliber may even have number 1 overall rumors.

Despite this, the bottom line is that he can alter an offense, which should not be scoffed at. Many teams are still considering taking a shot at Robinson, and while the Bears do have a solid running back room, Ryan Poles may be pressed to look at the best overall player left on the board.