What would be the best possible outcome for the Chicago Bears in the 2021 NFL draft? Sure, you could say in some weird world they end up with Trevor Lawrence, but realistically if things take a crazy turn and everything breaks just the way you want it, how would a perfect draft unfold for the Chicago Bears? I am going to take my stab at it.
Using grinding the mocks for the draft position, I gave a little leeway and looked for realistic, yet best possible outcome fits for what could happen next weekend. What do you think, and how would a perfect draft unfold for you?
Round 1 Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State
I have to admit, I am still talking myself into the idea that Justin Fields is going to fall in the NFL draft. However, even if the 49ers do not take Mac Jones, all indications are that they will take Trey Lance. There are many reports that teams have questions about Fields and he may fall closer to 10 or 11 in the draft.
In recent years, the quarterbacks who have fallen after being picked apart have been the best bets. Look at Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and Lamar Jackson. Those quarterbacks had dynamic college careers, but in the case of Herbert, Jackson, and Fileds being under the spotlight for so long has caused for the time to nitpick
However, Ryan Pace nitpicked Mahomes and Deshaun Watson and missed out. He has to see the prolific career of Fields and make a play if he falls closer to 10 or 11. So, let’s say that the rumors are true and Fields is now available at pick 10.
The Bears call Dallas and the best part is, the Bears do not have to give up a future first-round pick to move up. Ryan Pace packages a couple of picks along with a sixth in this year to get up a few spots and get Justin Fields. Say what you want about Fields, but no other first-round pick could bring more excitement to this roster.
Round 2 Terrace Marshall, WR, LSU
Terrace Marshall went from the best recruit in the nation to an afterthought behind Justin Jefferson and JaMarr Chase. Still, in 2019 Marshall was right with those two stars before an injury and in 2020 was having a great season before COVID-19 caused an opt-out. Marshall is so close to being a no-brainer first-rounder but has just enough questions to fall this far in a loaded wide receiver class.
Still, if he falls this far, the Chicago Bears would be crazy not to take him. Check out his size and athletic profile.
Not only can he move, he has great size as well. What is interesting to note is that in 2019 he typically played outside with Justin Jefferson in the slot, but in 2020 took over the slot role and had immense success.
This should intrigue Ryan Pace who has an issue of replacing Anthony Miller in 2021 and replacing Allen Robinson in 2022. Pace can trade Miller to gain assets to move up for Fields, and Marshall can upgrade the slot with a huge body next season. Robinson-Marshall-Darnell Mooney would be a nice compliment.
However, as Marshall grows and Robinson demands more money, the team can move Marshall to the outside and find a slot receiver in 2022. It is a nice ramp-up to being the man for Marshall and gives the Bears great weapons next season.