Chicago Bears Need No. 4: Defensive tackle
Had the Bears been able to finalize their contract with Ogunjobi, I would’ve felt much better about this position. But they didn’t, and 3-technique is far too important to Eberflus’ defense to leave untouched. I wouldn’t be surprised in the slightest if the Bears used one of their first three picks on a defensive tackle.
Potential targets
Travis Jones put on a show at this year’s combine. The Uconn product tested off the charts for someone of his stature and showed exemplary burst and movement skills for a lineman. Jones is more of a run-stopper than a pass-rusher at the moment, but he has the athleticism to become a better one if he can improve his technique.
Perrion Winfrey’s ideal role in the NFL is a 3-tech. Winfrey was one of the best interior pass rushers in college football in his time at Oklahoma. He has an impressive range and closing speed and used it to wreak havoc on opposing offenses. The one knock on Winfrey is that he doesn’t have the most balanced skillset. He was a well below-average run defender, and I’m not sure if the Bears are looking for a developmental prospect. Still, Winfrey’s upside makes him an intriguing option if he’s available in the third round.
Bottom line: Akiem Hicks was an integral part of the Bears’ defense for years. Replacing him will be no easy task, but is essential for the defense to get back to being one of the best in the league.