Round 6, Pick No. 180
The Bears double-up here on Notre Dame prospects as they select edge-rusher Daelin Hayes out of Notre Dame. Hayes has been a solid edge for Notre Dame and is a great leader for their defense.
Pros:
Prototypical build to be an outside linebacker in the NFL. Can rush the passer well and drop into coverage if needed making him a good fit in a 3-4 scheme. Powerful and extremely athletic to get by offensive tackles.
Cons:
Doesn’t have much sack production. Didn’t see the field much until 2019 in which he only played four games. Doesn’t have much experience or technique. Very unpolished.
Team Fit:
The Bears have great pass rushers in Khalil Mack and Robert Quinn who are both locked up, but after that it is murky. They need someone to give some rest to the veterans. Hayes can study behind these two for a few seasons alongside Trevis Gipson in hopes of taking over for them one day if he puts the pieces together.