Bears Day 2 Draft Prospects: D-Line

A lot has been written already about who the Chicago Bears first round pick (#11) will be, so I’m going to look at who might be options for the Bears in rounds two and three. The Bears filled some holes via free agency and should fill another one in the first round, but there will still be plenty of positions left that need upgrades. I’ll be breaking down potential targets for the Bears on day 2 of the draft at different positions of need over the next few weeks.

I’m starting with the defensive line where the Bears added a potential starter through free agency, Akiem Hicks, but still don’t have a clear-cut starter for the third DL position. Even if the Bears draft a defensive linemen with their first pick in the draft, I still think they could go back to the DL well sometime on day 2 of the draft. Teams can never have too many competent defensive linemen and right now the Bears only have two that have proven they can play in the NFL at a starting caliber level.

I’ve listed defensive linemen projected to be available in round 2 or 3 below who I think could be good fits for the Bears, listed in order of preference. If you have any questions, complaints, or advice… hit me up in the comments or on Twitter (@MFlannery_)

Day 2 DL Prospects

Adolphus Washington, Ohio St (6’4 | 301 | 4.96) 

Washington is a first round pick in most years, coming off a dominant week at the Senior Bowl, who is only available this late due to the impressive depth of d-linemen in this year’s draft. Washington was unblockable at times during the Senior Bowl and with some improvement in technique under Fangio’s tutelage could join Eddie Goldman and Akiem Hicks in the starting lineup.

Washington has the length, athleticism, long arms (34.5′), and unusual quickness to be a force as a 5-tech for the Bears. He improved every season at Ohio St and was at his best the last few games of his college career and during the Senior Bowl. Washington has a lighting quick first step and has gradually learned to use his long arms effectively to control blockers. His inconsistency throughout his college career keeps him out of the first round, but Washington has clear day 1 talent and proved it at the Senior Bowl.

Next: Jones & Clark