You Play GM – Bears On the Clock
I’ve been sifting through mock drafts galore over the last few days trying to come up with a scenario where the Bears actually get one of the highly sought after offensive linemen that they so desperately need. Truth be told, if you look at enough of them, you’re bound to find the perfect situation where the player(s) you covet most to be wearing the Orange and Blue will be there at pick #29. It’s not as easy as it looks. To give you an idea, you’ll get the chance to play GM.
I’ve taken the mock draft from ESPN Chicago’s Michael Wright and put you in Jerry Angelo’s (hot) seat. If the draft plays out the way Wright shows, what selection would you make? Give it a look after the jump (and don’t ruin it and see who Wright selects for the Bears until after the post):
The top 5 offensive tackles (Tyron Smith, Anthony Costanzo, Gabe Carimi, Nate Solder and Derek Sherrod) are gone as is the top guard/center prospect in Mike Pouncey. If you’re Chicago Bears GM Jerry Angelo, who do you take?
Danny Watkins, G, Baylor
Watkins represents the next best offensive lineman on the board. He’s a 27 year old rookie after spending 4 years as a firefighter.
Marvin Austin, DT, North Carolina
Character questions cause this talent to slide. The Bears claim that they’re not concerned about his character, but then again, they might still have some Visitor Badges lest over from Tank Johnson’s stay at the gray bar motel. Austin could be the answer at the 3-technique the Bears need to fill the void left by Tommie Harris.
Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State
Another DT prospect to help fill the void left by Tommie Harris’ departure. He smashed the bench press record at the combine, putting up 225 49 times. Is that enough to get him drafted late in the first round?
Brandon Harris, CB, Miami
Harris could help bolster an iffy Bears cornerback position. You can’t count on Tim Jennings again, can you?
Akeem Ayers, LB, UCLA
With only 2 linebackers under contract, the Bears need to add some depth at the position. Ayers could plug in as a starter on the strong side immediately alongside two Pro Bowlers.
If you vote Trade Down or Other, be sure to pipe up in the Comments to let us know who you’d like to see the Bears land.