:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66470937/1165682183.jpg.0.jpg)
I’m a proponent for trading back if possible in most instances.
Unless there’s a no-brainer type of player just sitting there that is high atop your board and at a position of need, it make sense to move back for more chances in the draft.
The latest mock draft from The Draft Network’s Senior Draft Analyst, Kyle Crabbs, has the Chicago Bears staying put with their 43rd overall selection, but trading back from 50 to pick up a third rounder. I would love it if Ryan Pace were able to swing a similar deal in the real draft and get an additional day two pick.
Here’s how Crabbs had the Bears drafting.
43. Jonah Jackson, IOL, Ohio State
The Chicago Bears need depth in the middle after the retirement of Kyle Long. Jonah Jackson might be the best plug-and-play guard in the draft.
Our Senior Draft Analyst, EJ Snyder, thought Jackson had a nice week down in Mobile at the Senior Bowl. He has played all three interior line spots during his time at Rutgers and Ohio State, but at this point in his development he’s a better pass protector than run blocker. If the real draft were to fall this way, I like the player Crabbs has going at 44, Kyle Dugger, the safety from Lenoir-Rhyne.
60. Cole Kmet, TE, Notre Dame
Chicago needs more from the tight end position after swinging and missing on Adam Shaheen. Cole Kmet is the cleanest “in-line” prospect at the position to project to the pro level.
Getting a tight end further down the second round sounds better to me than grabbing one at 50, and Kmet is a guy that can work his way into the starting lineup at some point. While his in-line blocking is still a work in progress, he shows a willingness to get after defenders.
And here’s where Crabbs’ projected trade puts the Bears in the third round.
92. Michael Ojemudia, CB, Iowa
The Bears’ secondary bid farewell to Prince Amukamara this offseason. Michael Ojemudia is a comparable athlete at a comparable size.
He has had 6 interceptions and 17 passes defended the last two years, and there’s been a nice string of Hawkeye defensive backs drafted into the NFL that makes me feel Ojemudia could find a nice place as a pro.
He’s experienced, a team leader, and he has good size and length for corner.
Check out his full mock draft and let us know if this is how you would have picked if the real draft fell this way.