Would you rather the Chicago Bears draft George Pickens at No. 39 or…
First up of the two options is George Pickens. Pickens is a prototypical “X” receiver who would play mostly on the outside. He suffered an ACL tear that limited him to only five catches in 2021. When we look at his film in 2020 vs 2021, what concerns me is the lack of explosiveness that he once showed prior to the ACL injury. This is why he is going to be available in the second round.
Had he continued on his path in 2021 that he showed in 2020, it’s likely that Pickens would be a lock for the first round. It is possible that Pickens is selected ahead of pick No. 39 in the second round, but I am fairly confident he will be there for Ryan Poles to consider.
Pickens has the ability to separate even after the ACL tear. He’s not one of the fastest wide receiver prospects, but he is quick and elusive when making moves on the field. He also brings a nastiness to him that you see in his blocking game. He’s not afraid to hit and shove corners around with his strength — something that reminds me of Hines Ward.
Pringle has great hands and can high-point the ball with the best of them. He has the upside to be a better possession-type receiver than we saw here in Allen Robinson. Should the Chicago Bears look to draft George Pickens, he’d fit in nicely with the current makeup of the wide receiver group. Darnell Mooney would play the “Z” receiver position, while Byron Pringle should take over the slot. If George Pickens is indeed available at No. 39, Ryan Poles must consider calling his name.
That said, it’s possible that another receiver catches your and Ryan Poles’ eye at No. 39.