Trying to predict the Chicago Bears’ first pick in the 2019 NFL Draft is almost impossible with 86 selections coming before Ryan Pace can turn in a card.
But every general manager has to be prepared for every situation that could come up as players unexpectedly rise and fall on draft day.
Pace doesn’t have to settle for any particular positions of need, but he’ll be hoping a few top players at key spots on his roster happen to last into the third round.
Given the unpredictability of the draft, it’s always possible the Bears could face a best-case scenario at multiple positions for the 87th overall pick.
Running back: Miles Sanders, Penn State
Sanders emerged from the shadow of Saquon Barkley to make a name for himself in 2018.
He’s a patient, elusive runner who doesn’t go down easily and fits the mold of what Matt Nagy seems to want in a running back.
His defining flaw on tape is in pass protection, but he’s shown reliability as a receiver and looks the part of an every down back in the NFL.
Sanders is in the conversation as a top running back in this draft, but the overall value of the position could help him fall into the Bears lap.
Edge rusher: Jachai Polite, Florida
Polite failed the pre-draft process.
His draft stock took a free fall at the NFL combine when he ran the second-slowest 40-yard dash at his position, and his interviews raised questions about his maturity and preparedness.
That could allow a potential first-round talent (on tape) to fall to the Bears in the third round.
Polite is an explosive pass rusher off of the edge who can win in a variety of ways and also impact the running game.
The converted defensive tackle had 11 sacks, 17.5 tackles for loss and six forced fumbles last year, and he still hasn’t reached his full potential.
Cornerback: Justin Layne, Michigan State
Both Matt Nagy and Chuck Pagano should want Layne in Chicago.
He came to Michigan State as a wide receiver before switching to the secondary, but the Spartans still let him play both ways throughout his career.
Layne has the length and athletic tools teams look for in their outside cornerbacks with no shortage of ball skills.
He’s still developing his technique from a footwork and separation standpoint, but a year behind Kyle Fuller and Prince Amukamara in Chicago could prepare Layne for a starting role in the near future.
Plus, he could carve out a role early in Nagy’s goal line packages with defensive players scoring touchdowns.
Safety: Juan Thornhill, Virginia
Thornhill was recruited as an “athlete” out of high school, and he might as well take the same designation into the draft.
He lined up all over the secondary for Virginia, starting games at cornerback and both safety positions over the last three years.
Thornhill tested very well at the combine and his pro day as one of the most smooth athletes in the draft.
He can play deep, in the box, on the outside or in the slot, and Chuck Pagano would struggle to take him off the field.
If he’s on the board, you draft him and figure out where to play him later.
