Chicago Bears trade up to retry at quarterback in 2021 mock draft

Round 6, Pick No. 228; Round 7, Pick No. 232

Another prospect who is being slept on, Erroll Thompson was an extremely successful linebacker for Mississippi State. He is an extremely hard hitter who will always make a “pop” when he hits someone. While at Mississippi State, Thompson racked up over 300 total tackles and was a leader for their defense.

Thompson is a perfect candidate to eventually replace Danny Trevathan. It was clear Trevathan took a step back last season and maybe on the decline at this point in his career. Thompson can sit behind him and Roquan Smith and learn to take the reigns once Trevathan is done. He additionally brings much-needed depth.

The son of former long-time NFL Fullback, Lorenzo Neal definitely shows that football runs in his family. Neal is an absolute monster on the defensive line and plays with a high motor. He shows solid athleticism and mobility that is shocking to see from a player of his stature.

Neal is another prime candidate, like Thompson, that will benefit from sitting and learning from current and former stars on this Chicago Bears defense. Neal will be behind Akiem Hicks, Eddie Goldman, Bilal Nichols, and Mario Edwards. Learning behind these guys will help him develop into a great defensive lineman that can take over for Hicks once Hicks reaches the end of his career.

Final Thoughts:

If Pace pulled off getting Justin Fields and bringing in these players, I believe he would be forgiven for the Andy Dalton signing. It would be hard, but bringing in a top quarterback better be the priority now of Pace and the Bears.

Previous Mocks:

• 3/11 Mock Draft
• 3/03 Mock Draft
• 2/25 Mock Draft