The Chicago Bears made a big noise on Thursday night because they had two top-ten picks in the 2024 NFL draft. However, they were a bit more quiet with just one pick in round three during Friday night. The team took a left tackle who is likely going to sit during his rookie year as well, so the excitement was tampered with.
The Bears only have one pick again on Saturday, but there are plenty of great options available. Who should the team key in on?
4. Mason McCormick, OL, South Dakota State
Mason McCormick is an interesting prospect. He is a sixth-year player due to a redshirt season and getting the COVID season adding a year of eligibility. He started for four seasons and was a team captain the past two years. McCormick has really blossomed into a valuable player.
Still, a small school player who plays interior offensive line is a bit older and does not have consistent tape will fall in the draft. McCormick does have quality size and athletic traits for an interior offensive lineman. The thought is that at this point in the draft, the upside is worth a bet. He would be needed behind Teven Jenkins and Nate Davis, who have injury concerns.
3. AJ Barner, TE, Michigan
The Bears need a third tight end behind Cole Kmet and Gerald Everett. They would prefer for that tight end to be a blocking option as well, because that can free up these two in the passing game more. Barner may be the best blocking tight end in the draft. He will not add much production, but the Bears do not need it. This is a solid fit.
2. Tyler Davis, DL, Clemson
The Bears need to add to the defensive line. Davis mainly played nose tackle at Clemson, which is why he is falling to the fourth round. Still, this is a player who has violent hands and can get upfield a bit more than a traditional nose tackle. This would be a great fit for the Bears as he could rotate with Andrew Billings, Gervon Dexter, and Zacch Pickens.
1. Cedric Johnson, Edge, Ole Miss
Cedric Johnson is the type of edge rusher that Matt Eberflus likes to add to his team. He is not a high-quality pass rusher, but he does bring solid run defense ability, he plays strong, and he hustles until the whistle blows. This is the perfect fit to add to a rotation that needs some juice.