Nov 29, 2014; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles running back Dalvin Cook (4) runs the ball past Florida Gators defensive lineman Dante Fowler Jr. (6) and linebacker Antonio Morrison (3) during the game at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports
With the draft just roughly a month away Bear Goggles On will be breaking down a wide range of options for the Chicago Bears 2015 draft. We’ll profile different positions and different rounds where players who might fit with the Bears new management regime.
Dante Fowler, OLB, Florida
There’s no doubt the Bears will need a dynamic pass rusher to plug into Vic Fangio’s new 3-4 defense. There would be none better to select than Florida’s Dante Fowler. Check out his player card via Mockdraftable.com
College Career:
At Florida, Fowler was a beast. He was First Team All-SEC in 2015 while recording 140 tackles, 34 tackles for loss, 14.5 sacks and 5 forced fumbles in his three-year career with the Gators. He dropped over 20 pounds between his freshman and sophomore season, allowing him to stand up to move to outside linebacker.
Strengths:
Fowler’s athleticism and versatility jump off the screen when you watch him play and will make him an asset wherever he lands. His long arms are an asset in pass rushing, especially to keep offensive tackles from getting into him. His quick first step and ability to change direction make him difficult to block. Can rush the passer out of a two-point or three-point stance.
Weaknesses:
Fowler is still raw, developing a full repertoire of pass rushing moves. To take his game to the next level Fowler needs to improve recognition and get stronger at the point of attack. He may struggle a bit playing the run and average lower body strength could allow him to get overpowered if engaged.
Bears Fit:
Fowler would be an instant impact player in John Fox and Vic Fangio’s 3-4 scheme as an outside linebacker. Despite an apparent glut of outside linebackers, none have the unique size/speed ration that Fowler possesses. I’d peg him as a Day 1 starter.
Draft Projection:
The biggest problem with Fowler is he’s too damn good to drop to the Bears, who are drafting at #7. It’s highly unlikely Fowler will be available unless the Bears move up to get him. I’ve seen mock drafts that have him going as high as #2 to the Tennessee Titans and few recent mocks have him getting out of the Top 5.
Highlights:
What do you think? How would Fowler fit with the Bears?