2014 Chicago Bears Draft Picks: Chicago selects LSU DT Ego Ferguson

Phil Emery was adamant that he would focus heavily on the defense during this year's NFL Draft, and so far in the first two rounds, he's done just that.

With the 51st overall pick, the Chicago Bears select DT Ego Ferguson (LSU). The 6'3, 315 lb defensive tackle showed flashes last season for LSU, but many scouts had him graded as a 3rd-5th round player.

From Dane Brugler:

STRENGTHS: Tall, well-built frame with well-proportioned bulk from head to toe. Flexible body type with natural bend, controlling his momentum well when he stays low with impressive change of direction skills for his size. Long arms and quick hands, using his strong limbs to press and lock out.
Good vision and awareness, keeping his eyes elevated to locate and track the ball. Quick read/react instincts and not easily fooled. Quick off the snap with the foot quickness to chase and make plays away from the line of scrimmage. Improved block anticipation and instincts, elevating well at the line of scrimmage to knock down passes.

Holds the point well with his aggressive demeanor, playing with a chip. Good work ethic off the field, adding 40 pounds of good weight since enrolling at LSU.

Versatile skill-set to be a force vs. the run and the pass and can play any interior defensive line position at the next level - not scheme specific.

WEAKNESSES: Doesn't always explode off the ball. Not slow, but not as quick-twitch as other interior rushers. Uses his arms well to stack, but needs to do a better job swatting and shedding. Doesn't consistently use his hands to disengage, too easily handled by single blockers at times.

Tends to get too high and needs to keep his pads low to better redirect his momentum. Not fundamentally sound and still developing his upper and lower body mechanics. Needs to continue to develop his counter moves and more effective getting to the QB - only one career sack.

Needs to play more disciplined and eliminate dumb penalties. Lacks ideal experience and overall production as a one-year starter. Missed the 2013 bowl game due to an undisclosed illness.

------------

Scouting report from our LSU blog And the Valley Shook: LINK

Phil Emery probably doesn't read what the experts and analysts write about prospects, or if he does, he doesn't really care what they think.

He like versatile, athletic players, and Ferguson definitely has a lot of upside potential.

Thoughts on this 2nd Round selection?