Bears Day 2 Draft Prospects: Edge Rushers
Joe Schobert, Wisconsin (6’1 | 244 | 4.67) – An unconventional pick for this list as Schobert is considered by most to a better fit as an ILB or OLB in a 4-3 scheme, but after surprisingly athletic workouts this draft season and ample evidence on tape of his pass rushing skills… I think Schobert can be a starter in either scheme.
Schobert is a former walk-on who finished his senior season with both Big 10 Linebacker of Year and Wisconsin team MVP awards. He improved significantly every season for the Badgers and finished his career in Madison with an impressive stat line of 9.5 sacks, 19.5 tackles for loss, and 5 forced fumbles.
He lacks the height, strength, and explosiveness of a traditional edge rushing prospect, but that is the position he played last year for the Badgers and he was one of the most effective pass rushers in college football. Pro Football Focus actually graded Schobert as the most productive pass rusher in college football with a +22.7 productivity grade.
There is no arguing that Schobert is under-sized, but he has continued to gain weight and strength every year and should keep doing so in the NFL. Schobert might have the most effective mix of pass rush moves of any edge prospect in the draft. He combines a quick spin-move, excellent footwork, the balance and flexibility to bend under and around blocks, active and effective hand usage, and natural football instincts.
I think Schobert can be a useful NFL pass rusher, but an added bonus is his versatility. Most analyst’s seem to think he’d be better off as a 3-4 ILB and he could provide depth inside for the Bears, while all analyst’s seem to agree that Schobert will be an excellent special teams player regardless of where he lines up on defense.
A dangerous edge rusher who can slide inside on running plays and also be an asset on special teams is worth a 3rd round pick. Schobert may need a year in the weight room before he can be more than situational depth, but the talent, work ethic, and football instincts are there for Schobert to become a 3-down starter at OLB for the Bears.