The Chicago Bears made many surprising moves in the 2025 NFL Draft, but one that caught most off guard was their decision to select a cornerback on day three. In the fifth round, Chicago selected University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) cornerback Zah Frazier. Given the Bears' cornerback room is already strong, no one expected them to target that position group.
That said, Frazier is an intriguing prospect who adds real competition for the main backup role. Currently, that spot is held by third-year CB Terell Smith, who has started six games and has rotated with Tyrique Stevenson at points during the last two seasons.
Despite that, Frazier could be in a spot to take Smith's role now that Dennis Allen is the defensive coordinator. Let's explore why the former UTSA cornerback could quickly surpass Smith on the depth chart.
Why Zah Frazier Can Quickly Overtake Terell Smith on the Depth Chart
Although Frazier was only a starter for his senior season at UTSA, he proved how talented he is. In 2024, Frazier recorded 24 tackles, nine pass deflections, and six interceptions. Moreover, he finished the season with a pass coverage grade of 82.5 and a completion percentage against of 47.4%, according to PFF.
Frazier is 6-foot-2 and has 32 7/8 inch arms, which contributed to his ability to break up passes. Furthermore, at the NFL Combine, he earned a 9.36 Relative Athletic Score (RAS). His build and athleticism are exactly what Allen likes in his defensive backs.
Smith, on the other hand, measures in at 6-foot-1 and has 32 7/8 inch arms. Alongside those measurables, his RAS score coming out of college was 8.67. Unfortunately, Smith's height and athleticism have yet to translate to consistent play.
In limited action during his first two NFL seasons, Smith has never had a completion percentage allowed below 63%. While that's not bad for a backup, it could be better, which leaves the door open for Frazier.
Allen's experience molding stars out of players with an RAS score of 9 or above should be beneficial to Frazier. Even if the former UTSA cornerback is unable to pass Smith this season, having an ultra-competitive CB room will only help the Bears become a better team.