2014 NFL Mock Draft: The Chicago Bears Select…
Oct 19, 2013; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive lineman Stephon Tuitt (7) during the game against the Southern California Trojans at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame defeated USC 14-10. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Here is what NFL Mocks has to say about the Bears and where they expect them to go in the draft:
"16. Chicago Bears: Stephon Tuitt, DL, Notre Dame The Bears need to find a way to shore up the middle of their defense, and getting Tuitt would be a big step forward. The big defensive lineman has been clogging up holes for the Irish, and is projected to be a very effective player at the next level as well."
I sense a common theme that we’ll be seeing in these mock drafts. Anyone who has watched the Bears’ pathetic defense, especially against the run, selecting a defensive tackle makes a lot of sense. Tuitt is a beast – 6’6″ and 300 pounds. He almost seems too tall for the interior D-line, where pad level is crucial. If you’re looking at Notre Dame defensive tackles, I would take a long look at Louis Nix, who was still on the board when Mocks made their selection.
It’s also important to note that with former Pro Bowler Jeremiah (don’t call me Jay) Ratliff recently joining the Bears, he could be a building block along with an improving Stephen Paea and a below-market, something to prove Henry Melton to form the core rotation of the Bears defensive line, allowing them to shore up other areas, namely the secondary.
What do you think? Let’s see your thoughts on some prospects the Bears should be considering.