Chicago Bears 7-Round Mock Draft 1.0

Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

2nd Round (51): MLB Shayne Skov, Stanford (6’3, 244) – Skov plays with a ferocity and toughness that was lacking on the Bears defense last season. The Bears defense used to inspire fear in opponents, but last year opposing teams couldn’t wait to play against the Bears. When guys like Bennie Cunningham and Brandon Jacobs are looking like Jim Brown, then something is seriously wrong.

Drafting Skov would be a good start in bringing teeth back to the Bears defense. Skov was the emotional leader of a very tough Stanford defense. His pregame speeches are legendary for inspiring teammates, but more importantly his on the field play set the tone for Stanford’s fierce, hard-hitting defense. Skov is a sure tackler who can lay the lumber on opposing running backs or receivers crossing the middle. His blitzing instincts are so good that he is in the backfield so quick it looks like he is off-sides (0:47-1:02 of highlight reel). Skov has barely enough speed for MLB in a 4-3, but makes up for it with great overall instincts. His man coverage needs work, but Skov plays very well in zone coverage. If the Bears are ever going to be a feared defense again they need players who play the game with an edge, and a throw-back MLB like Skov is exactly that.

Other options: (CB Stanley Jean-Baptiste, CB Kyle Fuller, MLB Chris Borland, S LaMarcus Joyner, S Dion Bailey)