Updating the Chicago Bears’ three biggest (pre-draft) needs

Cornerback

Howard and Amos might be bigger names than Callahan, but Callahan was by far the most valuable player of the three.

For one, he played (and played well) slot corner, which is becoming increasingly important into today’s pass-happy NFL schemes centered on matchup problems. The Bears’ nickel defense was arguably even more lethal than their base defense because of Callahan’s sticky coverage and strong tackling abilities.

And unlike at running back and safety, there aren’t many viable options behind Callahan to immediately fill the void.

Buster Skrine is likely to be an average replacement for Callahan. That’s fine, but it’s also not necessarily something the Bears will hang their hat on long-term.

Kevin Tolliver saw the field last year and played fine, but it’s unclear how much the Bears trust him to handle the slot full-time just yet.

Furthermore, Prince Amukamara will hit 30 years old this summer and struggles frequently with injuries.

Bottom-line: the Bears must draft at least one cornerback this year to develop for the future. I’d look for a player with the versatility to play multiple positions and possibly earn their way into the nickel spot Year 1.

“Hope he falls” option: Julian Love (Notre Dame)

Love has solid size at 5-foot-11 and 195 pounds and good overall athleticism and length. He won’t wow you with top-end speed, but he balances that with good footwork and instincts to stay on routes.

He’s also a pass-defending machine, putting up 26 pass breakups and four interceptions his last two years in South Bend. Love might be better off in the slot but should be versatile enough to play outside as well.

In short, he’s likely to find his way onto the field somewhere as a rookie, whether or not the Bears take him.

Good corners have a tendency to get snatched up, so Love is no given in the third round. But that’s a very solid pick if the opportunity presents itself.

“Pet Project” option: Justin Layne (Michigan State)

Layne is a toolsy converted receiver with great size (6-foot-2) and length who also possesses good quickness and speed for his bigger frame.

He lacks polish and has to play more aggressively in run support, but his raw skill as a possible press-man corner is exciting. He changes directions and recovers on routes well and, being a former receiver, has better hands than your average corner.