All eyes will be glued to Monday night’s National Championship Game, where the LSU Tigers and Clemson Tigers will battle for the collegiate championship glory.
There will be plenty of scouts in attendance, and the Bears have plenty of needs they need to address this offseason. Monday night’s game will feature some of the best prospects heading into the 2020 NFL Draft.
Here are a few of the top prospects that could help the Bears to watch courtesy of Draft Wire:
EDGE K’Lavon Chaisson
LSU
With Leonard Floyd’s future in question, Chicago needs an edge rusher that can thrive opposite Khalil Mack. Chaisson’s explosiveness coming off the weakside is something that should make him an attractive option for teams.
In 2019, Chaisson had 58 total tackles, 6.5 sacks, 13.5 tackles for loss, two pass breakups and one forced fumble. His freakish athleticism and natural ability shows he can be effective as a speed rusher off the edge.
S Grant Delpit
LSU
While the Bears have their free safety locked up in two-time Pro Bowler Eddie Jackson, and looking at the National Championship Game, Delpit is one that stands out as a great fit at strong safety opposite Jackson. Delpit, who a versatile player with sound ball skills, has a knack for being around the football.
In 2019, Delpit had 59 total tackles, two interceptions, 3.5 tackles for loss, one sack, seven pass breakups and one fumble recovery. Although given Delpit is considered one of the top two safeties heading into the 2020 NFL Draft, he’s not going to fall to the Bears. But it’s good to dream, right?
CB Kristian Fulton
LSU
Cornerback is definitely a significant need for the Bears, one that they’re likely to address within the first two rounds of the NFL Draft. LSU has produced another top cornerback that teams will be targeting this draft, given Fulton’s ability to attack the catch point and create impressive plays.
In 2019, Fulton had 32 total tackles, one interception and 13 pass breakups. While there are question marks surrounding him off the field, he’s someone that could go in the first round or perhaps fall to the second where the Bears will be waiting.
LB Michael Divinity, Jr.
LSU
The Bears are in need of pass rushers following a decline in sacks last season. Divinity projects to play off the edge in the NFL, and he’s someone that should draw Chicago’s eye with his versatility, which could translate to more explosive plays at the next level.
In 2019, Divinity had 22 total tackles, three sacks, one forced fumble with the Tigers. Divinity is an intriguing prospect that looks to be a Day 2 selection.
OL Lloyd Cushenberry III
LSU
The Bears need to address their offensive line this offseason, and the NFL Draft would be a good place to start. Cushenberry’s skill set projects him to play inside at the guard position, which is something the Bears are looking to address with the loss of right guard Kyle Long.
Cushenberry is someone that’s effective against defenders both in the run game and passing game. While Cushenberry is still a raw talent in need of molding, his athleticism and versatility are assets that make him an intriguing prospect.
WR Tee Higgins
Clemson
There’s plenty to fix on the offensive side of the football, although receiver isn’t at the top of that list. Still, the Bears could use another explosive threat at receiver opposite Allen Robinson, and Higgins is someone that would certainly fit the bill.
In 2019, Higgins had 56 receptions for 1,115 yards and 13 touchdowns, which ranked seventh in the country. Higgins is a big target that could be utilized in the red zone, which is certainly an area the Bears need to correct heading into next season.
CB A.J. Terrell
Clemson
The Bears have a decision to make at cornerback this season, which could involve the release of veteran Prince Amukamara, which would leave a vacancy opposite Kyle Fuller. Chicago could go with second-year corner Kevin Toliver or turn to the NFL Draft. One prospect that should be on their radar is Clemson’s A.J. Terrell.
In 2019, Terrell had 29 total tackles, 0.5 sacks, two interceptions and two pass breakups. Terrell’s ability to attack the catch point and cause disruption for the receiver makes him a prospect to watch on Day 2.
OL John Simpson
Clemson
Given the questions surrounding the struggles of Chicago’s offensive line, Ryan Pace has a lot of work to do this offseason. Clemson guard John Simpson could be a versatile answer to the Bears’ offensive line woes.
Simpson lined up at left guard this season, but he’s proven he can play at the left or right guard position. Simpson makes up for his lack of athleticism with his power, and he’s someone the Bears could target to shore up their offensive line.
