Chicago Bears: Five prospects to watch in the CFP Championship

Nolan Smith could also be a third-round target for the Chicago Bears

Similar to George Pickens, Nolan Smith has struggled to live up to his billing as a five-star recruit and one of the top players in the country. However, he’s yet another player that could fall to the Bears and would benefit the team.

Khalil Mack was unable to finish the season after being put on injured reserve and the Bears were looking for a solution to replace him. Smith may not be a dominant force, but he would fit the role Mack plays.

Bringing up Mack is to signify the hole that was left when he was injured, not that he is injury prone. Mack has only missed what will be 12 games in his career after he will miss the Bears week 18 matchup against Minnesota.

In his career, Smith has a total of 7.5 sacks in three seasons along with 89 total tackles. In the Bears defense, however, Smith would likely have to drop back in coverage as well. In that sense, he has one interception and passes deflections.

In 2021 alone he’s forced three fumbles recovering one. Robert Quinn has been highly successful getting after the quarterback this season which resulted in him breaking the Bears’ single-season sack record, meaning that with him and Mack on the roster, Smith would not be needed as a full-time pass rusher.

It’s unknown if Smith will declare for the draft as he could return to Georgia for his senior season. Smith will likely go higher than his stats would believe you to imagine thanks to his potential and tangibles. Chicago would benefit from adding a player like Smith and letting him learn from one of the greatest to ever do it.