Nick Kwiatkoski-West Virginia-ILB-Grade: (B+)
This pick gets a slightly higher grade because of value at this spot. The value might be argued that it should be slightly decreased, because they gave up a 6th round pick to move up for him, but I kept the plus, because you have got yourself a guy that offers more than just his worth at the linebacker position although he is a hell of a linebacker. Ranked 4th among all linebackers in 2015 and 6th versus the pass according to pro football focus.
This is a kid that first and foremost will bring leadership and intensity to the football team. The Bears are changing the culture by adding these all in football players. One thing you won’t be able to say about anyone they bring to the building is whether or not they care about football and Kwiatkoski is the antithesis of any athlete that puts outside interests above football. For example players they’ve run off like Brandon Marshall and Marty Bennett. Anything other than family that comes before the Chicago Bears is not tolerated with this current regime. In Kwiatkoski there are no worries about that.
Kwiatkoski brings more than a plus intangibles along with him. He’s a very good athlete able to play a variety of positions and is scheme transcendent. His instincts and intellect aid greatly to this as well, but as a former safety/wide receiver in high school he has good ball skills and an understanding of the passing game along with route recognition. His swivel hips and agility help him to mirror receivers and backs out of the back-field and his superb instincts help him be where the ball will be a great deal of the time.
Also he will be a star on the special teams unit. Has the desire, and physicality to be a star there until he becomes a starter in the league which I’m convinced he eventually will be. The kid will jack you up with bone reverberating hits on kick coverage, as well as the run and passing game on defense. Bears got a good one here. It’s easy to understand why they traded up to get him.
Next: Nick Kwiatkoski Bears Second 4th Round Pick