Eric Rowe: Chicago Bears Draft Prospect Profile
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
With the draft less than two weeks away Beargoggleson will continue breaking down a wide range of options for the Chicago Bears in the 2015 draft. We started with the potential first round options, are now profiling some possible day 2 prospects, and will finish up with some under the radar day 3 players who I think could be good fits for the Bears new schemes on both sides of the ball. As always, if you have any complaints, advice, or questions please let us know in the comments or on Twitter.
College Career:
Started for the Utes all four years of his college career, the first three at free safety where he was named All-Pac12 as a junior, and the last at cornerback where he earned a 2nd team All-Pac12 nomination. Rowe broke up 34 passes in his 4 years as a starter, but only intercepted 3 passes.
Strengths:
Rowe has one of the best size / speed ratios at the corner position in this year’s draft at 6’1, 205 pounds with 4.45 speed. His versatility is another plus with experience at both free safety and corner and the size to play either at the next level. Rowe played mostly man coverage in college, but has shown the ability to play zone or press coverage as well. He has good instincts, plays the ball well, can hit and is solid in run support.
Weaknesses:
Despite his elite straight line speed, Rowe loses a step or two when he has to change direction and he was beat too often last season on double moves. He could be a better fit at free safety which could drop him a round or two in the draft.
Bears Fit:
The Bears need a safety and they need a corner. Seems like they can’t go wrong picking a guy like Rowe who worst case should be able to contribute at one of the those positions. Rowe’s skill-set also matches up well with the coverage scheme DC Vic Fangio used with the 49ers.
Draft Projection:
2nd-3rd round
Highlights: