Bears Find Diamonds in the Rough

Nov 2, 2013; Fort Worth, TX, USA; TCU Horned Frogs quarterback Casey Pachall (4) is hit by the West Virginia Mountaineers defense and fumbles during the second half at Amon G. Carter Stadium. West Virginia won 30-27 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

As we draw closer to the draft and the Bears brain trust is preparing their big board, the are other scouts that are building another list.  It’s those players that will go undrafted. The CFA, or college free agent.  The Bears will have about 10 spots open for this group, and its during this time that the Bears have to finalize who they want, but they also have to recruit them, as well. In looking at those players that have fallen through the cracks, been injured or other off the field issues, I’ve come up with five players the Bears should take a long look at. 

Dexter McDougle CB Maryland

He missed nine games last season to a broken shoulder blade.  Dexter has good instincts, muscular build and has shown good skills covering the intermediate and deep coverages. While he doesn’t have elite speed, he is savvy enough with his technique and vision to stay on the receivers hip. The challenge for any team interested is gauging his ceiling. He didn’t have a productive 2012 and while his first three games in 2013 where good, missing the rest of the season due to injury makes him an unknown.   Some scouts believe he is a real value corner and this is an area the Bears need depth.

Joe Don Duncan TE Dixie State

Duncan missed the whole 2012 season due to a knee injury but rebounded to have a productive season at Dixie State. It is a division II school where Joe Don played all four years. He comes in at 6’4″ and 270″ and is a better receiver than blocker. Not that he can’t block but needs work on his hands and strength. He can play in the slot and has good hands in catching the ball. He is limited in the routes he runs: quick outs, hitches and vertical routes in the red zone.  He is worth the look as the Bears search for Bennett’s backup and offers a good red zone alternative.