Chicago Bears GM Ryan Pace has found another late-round steal
For the third straight season, it appears as though Chicago Bears GM Ryan Pace has acquired another gem late in the draft.
In the most recent matchup against the New England Patriots, Ryan Pace’s fifth-round pick, Bilal Nichols, demonstrated once again he could start on about 30 other teams.
The box score doesn’t necessarily pop out, but Nichols’ four tackles, one for loss, one QB hit and forced fumble were all in limited playing time. Nichols has seemingly made a big play in each of the last four contests.
Nichols made that “game-saving” tackle for loss against the Arizona Cardinals to preserve a win. Against the Buccaneers, he made a few more tackles behind the line of scrimmage that were the result of film study and knowing the opponent. This game against the Patriots may have been his best game as a pro as his impact was felt on multiple levels.
It can be argued that Nichols has been the most impactful rookie of the Bears’ 2018 draft class. Roquan Smith has about twenty more tackles and 1.5 more sacks, yet, his presence hasn’t been felt nearly as consistently as Nichols. Rookie receiver Anthony Miller has shown some flashes but he only progresses as much as Mitch Trubisky allows, so his breakout performances may not come for some time.
Bilal possesses a rare combination of power and speed. It is not often you find a 6’4, 306 lb defensive lineman that also runs a 4.95 forty. The reservations that teams had on Nichols had more to do with the talent he played against as opposed to his own ability. It is clear that Pace liked Nichols after watching him show out in the Senior Bowl.
Having veterans like Khalil Mack and Akiem Hicks teaching Bilal the nuances of the NFL has apparently paid dividends. It’s unlikely that Nichols wins any accolades this season due to his limited role, but it is nice to know the Bears possess great depth at a very important position.
Next. Report Card. dark
Add Nichols to the list of late-round talents Ryan Pace has snatched from the opposition: Eddie Jackson (4th), Tarik Cohen (4th), Adrian Amos (5th), Jordan Howard (5th).