The Chicago Bears might not have had a first-round selection in the 2020 NFL Draft, but they managed to snag two first-round talents in the second round.
While many will criticize the selection of tight end Cole Kmet in the second round, the Bears ultimately got the best tight end prospect in this draft class. Kmet is easily the most NFL-ready tight end in a weak class, and now he’ll get to play for his hometown Bears.
Kmet will assume the in-line tight end role, where he’ll help block in the run game and serve as a pass-catching weapon in Matt Nagy’s offense, for whichever quarterback lines up under center.
Following the addition of Jimmy Graham in free agency, Bears general manager Ryan Pace is banking on Kmet and Graham to right the fallacies of Chicago’s tight end group.
The Bears also addressed a need in the defensive backfield at cornerback with the selection of Utah’s Jaylon Johnson, who can be plugged in as an immediate starter.
Following the release of Prince Amukamara, the Bears have filled the hole at right cornerback opposite Pro Bowler Kyle Fuller. Johnson is a physical corner that will challenge receivers
While the Bears have three other cornerbacks on their roster that were vying for the starting spot — Kevin Toliver, Tre Roberson and Artie Burns — Johnson figures to have the clear upper hand in the competition for the starting job.
Chicago doesn’t have another pick until Day 3, where they’ll have five draft selections barring any trades. The Bears have one pick in the fifth round at No. 163, as well as two selections in the sixth round (No. 196, No. 200 ) and seventh round (No. 226, No. 233).
Heading into Day 3, the Bears still have roster needs at safety, offensive line, wide receiver, running back and quarterback. Pace is known for drafting some late-round gems, which will certainly be the hope for Saturday’s selections.
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