Jan 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive lineman Arik Armstead (9) recovers a fumble against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the game at AT&T Stadium. The Buckeyes defeated the Ducks 42-20. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-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.
Arik Armstead, DE, Oregon
College Career:
During the 2014 season, Armstead started all 13 games, but missed two due to an ankle injury. He finished the season with 16 quarterback pressures, 46 tackles, 2.5 sacks and 4.5 tackles for losses. He achieved a personal best in the game against Ohio by making nine tackles. In the 2013, Armstead started five games. In the first game of the season, he made his first full career sack against Nicolls State. Throughout his freshman year, in 2012, he was one of four freshmen to play in all 13 games. While at Oregon, he followed in his father’s and brother’s footsteps by playing basketball his sophomore and junior years.
Strengths:
After 2014, Armstead’s athleticism showed from a significant gain in bulk to suit his well-built frame. As a result, he is an explosive blocker with good pad level and hip snap. This ability allows him to gain immediate control of the offensive linemen due to his precise arm extension and strong hands to unlock him promptly from blocks.
Weaknesses:
Even though Armstead may win against an offensive lineman, he fails to put himself in a good position to finish a play. This lack of foresight is caused from him getting caught up in other players who distract him from making the ball carrier his focus. “Raw” is how many describe him – he needs proper coaching and experience to guide him for the next move after he has completed his first play. He fails to figure out where he is needed next.
Bears Fit:
He is a conditioned athlete who is perfect for the 3-4. With his size and agility he has demonstrated off the snap, he could dominate the defensive line. His official draft grades is 6.51 making him a definite starter, but he needs some guidance to know where to look next if he wants to prove himself to the coaching staff.
Draft Projection:
Armstead is in the second round to be either the early teens or early 20’s of the pick. There is much speculation that the Bears’ needs are to find a pass rusher, a line backer, a defensive back and even a quarter back – all of which should be starters. Now is Armstead able to fit any of these needs? I don’t think so, but defensive coordinator Vic Fangio may think so, in particular if Fangio is up to providing Armstead the guidance he needs to use help him use his body in a more effective manner.
Highlights:
Armstead is #9 for Oregon to see him in a series of plays from their game against Texas.