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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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Jonathan Bullard-Florida-DE-Grade: (B)

Florida Gators defensive lineman Jonathan Bullard (90) Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Florida Gators defensive lineman Jonathan Bullard (90) Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

With this pick I believe the Bears envision their version of retired 49er defensive end Justin Smith. At this point Justin Smith was not fully developed. He was only in the 260’s and had to put on weight, but Bullard is already at 285 and has the frame to put on more, so he has the potential to be even more of a power based guy. Although Smith was faster with a ridiculous 4.64 40 it was at linebacker size in the 260’s. Bullards 4.93 at nearly 290 is moving pretty good.  Both were about as strong 23 reps for Bullard, 26 reps for Smith in the bench press. On tape though Bullard is a little more athletic at this point especially at 285. Long arms and big hands just like Smith.

Probably the biggest similarity between the two are their ability to convert power into speed and speed into power. He can also hold up against the run with a strong anchor and take on double teams. Pro football focus has him as the top ranked interior defensive lineman against the run with 42 stops. Also possesses a jolting blow with his initial punch knocking blockers back on their heals with those heavy hands of his.

Bullard also offers positional versatility just as Smith did by moving all up and down the line of scrimmage. Needs to work on his pass rush, but did have 6 1/2 sacks which ain’t bad for a guy who was primarily asked to do the dirty work taking on doubles and creating screens for line stunts and twists, and primarily stay disciplined and stop the run. Bullard has a real good chance to exceed that B grade I gave him and become that Justin Smith/Malik Jackson type of guy in this defense.

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