Anthony Jefferson: Chicago Bears Draft Profile
Feb 21, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; UCLA defensive back Anthony Jefferson speaks to the media at the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
The Chicago Bears had one of the best overall drafts in recent history and signed some interesting undrafted free agents as well. Over the next week Beargoggleson will be breaking down the Bears draft picks and the undrafted free agents with a legitimate shot to make the 2015 roster. With a new management team taking over the leadership of the Bears and the Bears transitioning to new schemes on both sides of the ball, there will be significant roster turnover. Rumors are already circulating about some veteran players and recent draft picks that may not be on the roster in 2015. With all of the turnover in the front office and coaching staff, there is more of an opportunity than usual for rookies to make the team.
S Anthony Jefferson, UCLA
Attributes: 6’1″ 198 lbs. 4.72/40 yards
I’m not sure if this kid will make the final roster, but if he does, it’ll be because of his contributions on special teams. The Chicago Bears picked him up as an UDFA and some were surprised he wasn’t drafted. This video is of an interception that was so good, it almost looked like an accident.
Video:
Strengths: Big enough to cover the large receivers and it’s said that he is better on the field than his combine numbers would dictate. He is versatile enough to play both safety positions as well as CB and is a good tackler. He made 161 of them, to go along with 17 passes defended, and three interceptions in 2013 and 2014 combined. If he makes plays when he sees playing time he might be able to convince John Fox to keep him on board. We are still looking for another Mike Brown.
Weaknesses: Missed most of 2010 and all of 2011 with injuries, though he came back and played special teams in 2012. Inability to cover the faster players and slow to change direction.
Bears Fit: Antrel Rolle was signed as a free agent safety from the Giants but he is 32 years old, and Adrian Amos was drafted in the fifth round and is a lot of our fan’s favorite to start at safety. I don’t know how it will shape out yet, but the fact that Anthony Jefferson can play both CB positions and both safety positions certainly has to help him keep this gig with the Chicago Bears.