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Draft Grades For The Bears Picks

By Johnny Hatelak

Oct 17, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) and Missouri Tigers offensive lineman Nate Crawford (55) battle during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Missouri 9-6. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) and Missouri Tigers offensive lineman Nate Crawford (55) battle during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Missouri 9-6. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Overall 2016 Draft Grade: A

I almost hate giving this grade as I will certainly be tabbed a homer, “with Bear Goggles on” but I have to be honest. Trust me I looked for justified reasons to give this a B- but based on the criteria I set which I mentioned at the beginning of the blog this is the most logical conclusion. They got value, filled needs, and most of these picks have high ceilings.

They also have included an interesting priority free agent crop filled with draftable players that went un-drafted for whatever reason. They emphasized toughness and these players have the football character they want to fill the roster with along with instincts and college production to boot. All these guys had productive college careers and can play the game of football. Sure there was risk none more so than their number one pick, but with this coaching staff in place you have to have a level of trust and confidence they will get every ounce of potential possible out of these players.

In conclusion Ryan Pace, John Fox, the coaching staff, and entire scouting department played this draft like a fine violin. Moving up in the draft to get their target players, and moving down when they either lost out on their target, or when they knew they could still get the player they sought while acquiring more picks in the process. Also forgoing straight need in favor of best player available was encouraging while still getting great value in the process.

Indeed as Bear fans we should all breath a sigh of relief as it is apparently confirmed that this organization knows what they’re doing. Something most of us suspected but remained cautiously optimistic wanting to take a wait and see approach. They played the free agent market well getting great value and keeping the cap in control while filling needs and making it easy to go with a best player available approach. They also made the tough cuts to open up spots for the type of players they are looking to develop and grow into a championship roster.

Next: Grading And Breaking Down The UDFA Signings

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