The Bears have a hole at the cornerback position following the release of Prince Amukamara, who was one of the team’s first cap-casualties of the offseason.
Chicago has already signed CFL free agent Tre Roberson, who will be given a shot to win the starting job opposite Kyle Fuller. The Bears also have Kevin Toliver on the roster, who figures to get a shot. But the Bears will likely make cornerback a top priority during the NFL Draft.
With that said, here are five cornerback prospects the Bears should watch at the NFL Scouting Combine next week:
1. Jeff Gladney, TCU
The Bears should keep an eye on TCU cornerback Jeff Gladney, who draft stock has risen in a talented cornerback class. In 2019, Gladney had 31 total tackles, 0.5 sack, one interception and a career-best 14 pass breakups, which was tied for eighth-best in the country. Gladney is an athletic corner, a good tackler, especially on the perimeter, and puts himself in position to make a play on the ball.
2. Jaylon Johnson, Utah
Another prospect that has been mentioned in conjunction with the Bears is Utah cornerback Jaylon Johnson, who was a two-time first-team All-Pac-12 selection. He had seven career interceptions. Johnson has been praised for his physicality and athletic build that allows him to stack up against bigger, physical receivers. He’s developed into a shutdown cornerback in his junior season with the Utes.
3. Damon Arnette, Ohio State
While everyone is talking about Ohio State cornerback Jeff Okudah, and rightfully so, it’s his teammate Damon Arnette that is also turning heads. Arnette’s physicality helps him in run support, and he succeeds in press coverage. Arnette is a versatile corner that can play inside or outside, as well as contribute on special teams. When all is said and done, Arnette could very well go in the first round, which would be out of the reach of Chicago’s second round selections.
4. A.J. Terrell, Clemson
In a talented cornerback draft class, Clemson’s A.J. Terrell has flown under the radar. Terrell excels in man coverage, although he can be a more consistent tackler. 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.
5. Troy Pride, Notre Dame
One of the more underrated cornerbacks in the NFL Draft, Notre Dame’s Troy Pride brings athleticism and speed to the position. Pride’s numbers don’t exactly jump off the page — he had four interceptions in his collegiate career — but his quick feet and skillset allow him to keep up with receivers. Once projected to be a Day 3 pick, Pride Jr.’s Senior Bowl week might’ve elevated him to a second-round selection.
