The Bears have a very big need at defensive end, so why not fill it with a very big man?
In the latest NFL mock draft from CBS, the Chicago is projected to take 6-7, 290-pound lineman DeForest Buckner out of Oregon.
Buckner had 10.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss his senior season wit the Ducks.
Via CBS:
11. Chicago Bears: DeForest Buckner, DE, Oregon This is a match that almost makes too much sense as the Bears need defensive end help for defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s 3-4 scheme. And Buckner has an ideal skill-set to be an impact player at the five-technique spot.
With a draft grade of 92, ESPN rates Buckner as the fifth-best prospect in the entire draft class.
ESPN also rated Buckner as an exceptional run stuffer – a trait the Bears could use after ranking in the bottom third of the league in rushing defense last season.
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If Buckner is off the board before the Bears pick at No. 11, UCLA’s Myles Jack, Alabama’s Reggie Ragland, Notre Dame’s Jaylon Smith or Clemson’s Shaq Lawson could also be potential first-round fits for Chicago.
WATCH: DeForest Buckner highlights
Stats via CBS