Chicago Bears: 5 Players to watch at the 2023 NFL Combine
By Evan Bruner
Chicago Bears Draft Prospect No. 1: Will Anderson Jr.
Coming into the 2022 season, Alabama’s outside linebacker Will Anderson was widely regarded as the best defensive prospect in the class. Though many believe that gap narrowed during the season, that sentiment remains a popular one. Anderson has recorded 27.5 sacks in his last two seasons and has an elite bend and a high motor along with several other desirable traits.
Why the Chicago Bears should care
The explosiveness Anderson shows on tape has led many to believe he could have an impressive Combine and that could be enough to make him a Bear.
If there is a prospect that would stop the Bears from trading down in the draft it would probably be Anderson. Not only does he possess the physical traits for a high ceiling, but he also plays what is considered a high-value position. Outside of quarterback, a pass-rushing outside linebacker is arguably the most valuable position in all of football.
Even if the Bears do trade away their first pick, a deal with Houston or Indianapolis wouldn’t completely eliminate the possibility of Chicago selecting Anderson. No matter what the Bears do on draft night selecting Anderson is very much in the cards.