The 2021 Reese’s Senior Bowl is scheduled to kick off on Jan. 30, but the real focus will be on the all-important week of practices in the days leading up to the game.
The Bears won’t have the benefit of coaching either roster this year, but they should have a contingent of scouts and front-office personnel on hand to evaluate the nation’s top senior prospects.
Of critical importance for Chicago this offseason is quarterback, where the failed Mitch Trubisky pick and the disaster trade for Nick Foles has left the franchise searching for QB-next once again.
The Senior Bowl will feature a few intriguing names Bears fans should keep a close eye on during the televised practices and, of course, the game.
Here are the three most appealing options for GM Ryan Pace to consider.
Kyle Trask, Florida
-At one point during the college football season, Trask was considered a Heisman Trophy favorite and a potential first-round pick. The shine has dulled on Trask’s assessment and it looks more like he’ll be a quality second-round target who could be on the board when the Bears pick on Day 2.
Trask has the size and baseline passer’s skill set to provide the Bears with a potential rookie starter. He isn’t the best athlete, but he’s capable of beating defenses with his strong football IQ. And we know how much Pace loves players with a good football IQ.
Ian Book, Notre Dame
-Book won’t check every box when it comes to the traditional quarterback scouting report — he isn’t the biggest guy playing the position — but he has a certain moxie about him that will serve him well on the next level.
Book can win outside of structure and is an above-average athlete who can make plays with his legs. His pocket presence needs some work, but as a Day-3 pick? The Bears could use a guy with Book’s developmental skill set.
Kellen Mond, Texas A&M
-Mond has a live arm and an NFL quarterback’s frame to go along with better athletic ability than he’s given credit for. His processing speed needs an uptick, but he has the physical traits to develop into a legitimate passing threat on the next level.