The Chicago Bears are looking to rebound following a disappointing season, and they have some rookies that are poised to make an impact in 2020.
While the Bears were without a first-round pick for the second straight year, they did have a pair of second-round selections where they addressed two significant needs with tight end Cole Kmet and cornerback Jaylon Johnson.
Chicago also snagged someone intriguing prospects in the fifth round in edge rusher Trevis Gipson, cornerback Kindle Vildor and receiver Darnell Mooney. The Bears also added a pair of offensive linemen in Arlington Hambright and Lachavious Simmons in the seventh round.
But which Bears rookie is poised to help the team the most in his rookie season? Is it Kmet, who should bring in an instant burst to Chicago’s tight end room? Is is Johnson, who figures to be the favorite to land the vacant cornerback spot opposite Kyle Fuller? Or perhaps Mooney, who should bring speed to the Bears’ offense?
Our Bears Wire staff shares their picks for Chicago’s rookie of the year, and it’s nearly a clean sweep.
Alyssa: CB Jaylon Johnson
The Bears got an absolute steal in Johnson in the second round of the NFL Draft, who many had pegged as a first-round talent. He’s a versatile, athletic corner who has a great chance of locking down a starting spot in his rookie year. Johnson is the clear-cut favorite to win the starting job opposite Kyle Fuller, and he has the tools and opportunity to make an immediate impact in his rookie season. And if Chicago’s pass rush returns to its 2018 form, he’ll benefit significantly.
Johnson knows that there were six cornerbacks taken ahead of him in the draft, and that’s a chip that he’s carrying on his shoulders. He’s aiming to accomplish some significant milestones in his rookie season, including winning the starting job, earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors and winning a Super Bowl. Bears fans would love nothing better than for all of those to come to fruition.