2012 NFL Draft: Grading Picks 1-3 of the Chicago Bears
Published by Tyler Moore on April 29, 2012
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears had picks in each of the first seven rounds of this weekend’s NFL draft, but we are going to look at the first three picks of the Chicago Bears.
Coming into the draft, the Chicago Bears knew they needed a guy who can rush the passer, a guy who can consistently get to the quarterback and someone who can complement Julius Peppers at the defensive end position.
Shea McClellin
With the No. 19 pick in the first round of the NFL draft, the Chicago Bears selected Shea McClellin, a defensive end out of Boise State University.
McClellin is an undersized defensive end, and most NFL scouts have him ending up at an the OLB position when his career is over.
It remains to be seen whether the Bears will use him as a defensive end or as an OLB in the NFL. Some scouts say if McClellin adds more weight then he can be best utilized at the defensive end position.
McClellin was a three-year starter at Boise State, and saw time at both defensive end and OLB. Most scouts feel the Bears will play McClellin at both positions as well.
Grade: B-
Alshon Jeffery
In the second round, the Chicago Bears traded their fifth-round pick to move up five spots to land wide receiver Alshon Jeffery. This was a great move by the Chicago Bears, as they got an absolute steal.
The reason Jeffery slipped to the second round was because scouts are worried about whether or not he can manage his weight.
At 6’4″, 229 pounds, Alshon Jeffery is another big physical receiver that Jay Cutler can throw the ball to.
If the Chicago Bears can somehow find a way to give Matt Forte a contract extension, they have a chance to have a very scary offense this season.
Grade: B+
Brandon Hardin
In the third round of the NFL draft, the Chicago Bears selected safety Brandon Hardin from Oregon State.
Hardin comes with a lot of question marks, as he missed his entire senior season due to a shoulder fracture.
Brandon Hardin is an injury-prone safety, however, if he is able to stay on the field he has the chance to become a Mike Brown-type player.
At best, though, he provides depth to the safety position that needs it.
Grade: C
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