Northwestern DE Dean Lowry touts fit in NFL 3-4 scheme

Neither Dan Vitale nor Dean Lowry went through NFL Scouting Combine-style drills at Northwestern’s pro day Tuesday. They did the real thing weeks ago.

Nonetheless, the two — Vitale was the team’s “Superback,” Lowry a defensive linemen — were the focus of 46 representatives from 31 teams. The Bears sent scouting director Joe Douglas, assistant director of college scouting Jeff Shiver and scout Ryan Kessenich; only the Saints were absent.

Those representing 3-4 schemes must have kept an eye on Lowry. At 6-6, 296 pounds, his best fit could be at end in their defense.

“I think a lot of 3-4 teams are looking at me as a ‘five’ technique,” he said. “I think I have the size and speed to play that. I think I’ll fit me really well.”

From Boylan Catholic in Rockford, Lowry, who had three sacks and 13 ½ tackles for loss as a senior, said he’s yet to meet with the Bears. Coach Pat Fitzgerald praised his versatility; Lowry played nose, tackle and end in a four-man front and, in special packages, as part of a three-man line.

“I mean, he was a great player,” Fitzgerald said. “I don’t want to project for the organizations, because I don’t know their personnel needs. I don’t know necessarily their schemes. Do I think he can play in both schemes? Yeah, absolutely.”

Vitale, who has met with the Bears, spent Tuesday mostly running routes in front of coaches. He’s worked out with Lowry all offseason.

“We used to push each other all the time, and we still do to this day,” Vitale said.

Note: Bears free agent Sherrick McManis, a special teams stalwart and cornerback, has been training with the Wildcats this offseason. “Hope he gets paid,” Fitzgerald said.

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Email: pfinley@suntimes.com