Chicago Bears

Chicago Bears Three-Round Mock Draft: Pour on the Speed

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Sep 24, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) is seen during the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Ryan Pace knows the 2017 NFL draft could be the defining moment for his tenure as Chicago Bears GM. That’s why it must go well.

There has been plenty of talk about needing a new quarterback what with Jay Cutler all but finished in his time with the team. However, the bottom line is they are 3-9 and in danger of finishing with their worst record since 1969. Regardless it’s apparent there is plenty of work to do across the board and their best course of action would be to get the absolute best talent available.

1st Round

Jabrill Peppers

S, Michigan

Jabrill Peppers has the most upside of any defensive back in this class. He has a linebacker body and cornerback speed. He can run the football, return punts, blitz the quarterbacks and make tackles. Some are still sketchy on his coverage chops but the hope is that will improve as he gains experience. If the light switches on he could end up being the best two-way safety in the NFL. This is the sort of situation where the GM trusts the coaches to do their job in developing him. There are few better at that than Vic Fangio.

Oct 27, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies tight end Bucky Hodges (7) makes a catch against Pittsburgh Panthers defensive back Damar Hamlin (3) during the second half at Heinz Field. Virginia Tech won 39-36. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

2nd Round

Bucky Hodges

TE, Virginia Tech

This offense is looking for a pass catching tight end. Every team prefers one that can do it all but Chicago needs one that can open up the passing game. Bucky Hodges is the perfect solution. Yes, his blocking is sub-par at times but as a big, athletic target with speed there are few in the country who can compare to him. He’s a basketball-type body who can win 50/50 matchup but also threaten down the seam with his speed.

Dec 3, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws the ball in the second half against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the ACC Championship college football game at Camping World Stadium. Clemson Tigers won 42-35. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports

3rd Round

Deshaun Watson

QB, Clemson

It’s just too difficult to tell how his talents will translate to the NFL. Will he be the next Russell Wilson or Dak Prescott, or will he be another Robert Griffin III? The Chicago Bears are eager to find out. A 3rd round pick is more than an acceptable risk to take on somebody like Watson. He has the capacity to be a future franchise quarterback. It’s a matter of whether he can handle throwing into the tighter windows and faster pace of the pro level. That often comes from hard work and what’s between the ears.