Top 5 Inside Linebackers The Chicago Bears Should Target In The Draft
By Tooch
In Part 2 of our series, we looked at the top 5 defensive ends the Chicago Bears should target in the 2014 NFL draft. Now, in part 3, we’ll take a look at another major need for the team this offseason — inside linebacker.
Brian Urlacher’s departure from the Bears following the 2012 season hurt the defense much more than many expected it would in 2013. Following D.J. Williams’ injury, the Bears struggled to find answers at the middle linebacker position and were forced to thrust rookie Jon Bostic into a role that he simply was not ready to fill. Despite the news that Shea McClellin will now get a crack at the position, the Bears should look for players in the draft who can create some competition this offseason.
The inside linebacker position is paper thin this year, but there are still a few options that would fit nicely with the Bears. With that said, let’s take a look at some of the team’s options:
Jan 2, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker C.J. Mosley (32) runs toward Oklahoma Sooners ball carrier during the second half of the Sugar Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
1 — C.J. Mosley, Alabama
Mosley is far and away the best middle linebacker prospect in the draft. As part of a tenacious Alabama defense, Mosley racked up 100 tackles during his senior season and was one of the most productive and experienced defensive players in all of college football. His leadership abilities and intelligence will help him transition very well to the NFL. Mosley also has great agility and quickness that would help the Bears tremendously in pass coverage. It will be difficult for the Bears and Phil Emery to justify drafting a linebacker in the first round, especially considering they spent a second round pick on Jon Bostic a year ago. But if Mosley is still available at 14, it would be an absolute steal for them.