Bears 7-Round Mock Draft: Two Trades Cause Massive Shake-Up
By Todd Welter
It would not be a shock for the Bears to use their salary cap asset to sign another edge rusher or a three-technique defensive tackle in free agency. That does not mean Ryan Poles will not add depth in the draft to the defensive line. That is what these two picks accomplish.
7. Keith Randolph Jr. Gives the Bears a Run-Stopping DT (No. 142 Overall)
. . Defensive Tackle. Keith Randolph Jr.. Keith Randolph Jr.. 5. player. Todd Draft Piece 5th round pick. Fifth Round, No. 142 Overall Pick. 481
Randolph Jr. was overshadowed at Illinois by his teammate Jer'Zhan Newton. Newton is considered one of the best defensive tackles in the draft. The duo made my life miserable for many interior offensive linemen in the Big Ten.
Randolph Jr. is outstanding against the run but is not very good at rushing the passer. The Bears defensive line was great defending the run and adding another run stuffer can help that unit thrive.
Plus, the Bears might decide to let Justin Jones walk in free agency and let Gervon Dexter Sr. become the starting three-technique defensive tackle. That is why it would be wise to add another tackle like Randolph to help Andrew Billings stop the run.
Plus, Randolph has some impressive tape and could develop into a solid nose tackle.
8. Xavier Thomas Adds Edge-Rushing Depth (No. 196 Overall)
6. Edge Rusher. Xavier Thomas. Sixth Round, No. 196 Overall Pick. Todd Draft Piece 6th round. Xavier Thomas. player. . . 432
Thomas is old for a prospect. He is 24 and played six years in college. A battle with COVID-19 and mental health issues is the reason for that according to Thomas.
But all in all Im glad things did not go as planned with having a good year in 2020 and go 3 & out. I wasnt ANY where near ready or mature during that time & wouldnt have lasted 2 years in the league. Over my time I have grown into a fully grown man & learned how to be a pro. https://t.co/hglvqoTJ7L pic.twitter.com/zd1FB20Igj
— Xavier Thomas (@atxlete) February 14, 2024
At least the man is self-aware. He also has really good bend for a pass rusher. When he gets to the quarterback, he packs a mighty hit.
He might be suited as a stand-up pass rusher in a 3-4 front. His game screams situational pass rusher and Eberflus could deploy him on third down to just get to the quarterback.
The Bears are probably going to get the complimentary pass rusher for Montez Sweat in free agency. They still need depth especially since Dominique Robinson is a bust.
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