The 2020 NFL Draft is nearly here.
The NFL is set on keeping the draft dates the same, although the circumstances surrounding the draft will undoubtedly be affected by the COVID-19 epidemic.
Still, free agency has been going strong, and the Bears have made several key moves to improve this offseason. Chicago added veteran quarterback and former Super Bowl MVP Nick Foles in a trade with Jacksonville. The Bears also added tight end Jimmy Graham to bolster the offense.
There are many other needs for Chicago, so expect this year’s draft class to address those specific needs, especially since Chicago has seven picks. Here is a look at who the Bears could target as April approaches.
Round 2, No. 43: Trevon Diggs, Cornerback, Alabama
No matter who the Bears bring in offensively, Chicago will always be a defensive-minded team. Diggs pairs well with Kyle Fuller and fills the vacancy left by Prince Amukamara. Additionally, Chicago added edge rusher Robert Quinn in free agency, making that position no longer a top need.
Round 2, No. 50: Austin Jackson, Offensive Tackle, USC
Jackson looks the part and could come in and compete right away for a starting spot. The 6-foot-6, 310-pounder, has two years of experience playing left tackle at USC. Jackson is known as more of a run blocker, which should benefit running back David Montgomery. If Foles is the starter, the RPO game will be a big part of the Bears’ offense, too.
Round 5, No. 163: Jordan Fuller, Safety, Ohio State
Fuller is another need-based pick, as the Bears let Ha Ha Clinton-Dix sign with the Cowboys in free agency. Fuller will likely earn his roster spot on special teams, but being able to learn behind a safety like Eddie Jackson gives him a chance to be a defensive difference-maker in Chicago.
Round 6, No. 196: Jauan Jennings, Wide Receiver, Tennessee
Jennings had an up-and-down career as a Volunteer. In his senior year, Jennings led the team in all receiving categories. He finished with 59 receptions for 969 yards (a 16.4 average) and eight touchdowns, adding 13 carries for 51 yards and one touchdown on the ground. Jennings would likely be a slot style receiver in Chicago.
Round 6, No. 200: Darryl Williams, Offensive Guard, Mississippi State
The best thing going for Williams is his flexibility on the interior offensive line. Williams is capable of playing center and both guard positions, which would greatly benefit the Bears.
Round 7, No. 226: Jacob Breeland, Tight End, Oregon
If the Bears move on from Trey Burton, Chicago will likely draft a tight end. Breeland averaged over 15 yards per catch in his four years at Oregon. The 6-foot-5 senior will make an excellent target over the middle, something the Bears have lacked in recent years.
Round 7, No. 233: Kamal Martin, Linebacker, Minnesota
Martin is a depth pick late in the draft and should be well-known to the Bears’ organization. Martin played collegiately for the Minnesota Golden Gophers of the Big Ten. Look for him to fill the void left by Nick Kwaitkostki.
