If there’s an area of strength on the Chicago Bears, it the defensive front-seven. Specifically, the defensive line. Even after losing defensive tackle Nick Williams to free agency, defensive line remains the Bears’ deepest group.
Still, it’s smart to do your homework on the young defensive linemen in this year’s draft class, especially when they present with the ability to serve as an edge rusher. Which is exactly what the Bears are doing ahead of the NFL Draft later this month.
The Bears have held pre-draft meetings with Auburn defensive lineman/pass rusher Marlon Davidson prior to the coronavirus outbreak and Nebraska defensive lineman Darrion Daniels over FaceTime, according to Draft Wire’s Justin Melo.
#Auburn DL Marlon Davidson was able to get in a top 30 visit with the #Bears prior to the COVID-19 outbreak.
He's also held pre-draft meetings over FaceTime with the #Browns, #Titans & #Jaguars recently.
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) April 1, 2020
#Nebraska DL Darrion Daniels was put through some drills by the #Titans DL coach after his Pro Day (3/12). He also worked out privately for the #Dolphins.
Daniels has also held pre-draft meetings over FaceTime with the #Cardinals, #Bears & #Jaguars recently.
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) April 1, 2020
Davidson, a four-year starter at Auburn, has versatility as an interior defensive lineman and coming off the edge. While the Bears recently signed Robert Quinn to replace Leonard Floyd opposite Khalil Mack on the edge, bringing in a young prospect that has versatility in the front-seven wouldn’t hurt.
But Davidson projects to be a Day 2 pick, and considering Chicago has bigger concerns to address with their two second-round picks, he might not be in the cards for the Bears.
Daniels, on the other hand, wouldn’t be brought in as a pass rusher. He’s a candidate for nose tackle, but some worry he lacks the instincts and traits needed to be a rotational defensive tackle. Although, Daniels projects to be a Day 3 prospect, which could be interesting for the Bears that have five Day 3 selections.
The Bears have seven draft picks this year — including a pair of second rounders, one pick in the fifth round, as well as two selections both in the sixth and seventh rounds.
While the Bears certainly have bigger needs than defensive line at this point — especially on offense and even on defense in the secondary — it doesn’t hurt to do your research.
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