Best NFC North Draft: Chicago Bears

Best NFC North Draft: Chicago Bears

    With no surprise here, the Chicago Bears had the best draft of the division in 2018. There are a few factors that led to this decision; did their draft fill holes in their lineup? Did any of these rookies have an impact? Is there room to develop these players into meaningful roles in the future? The answer to all of these questions has been a resounding yes for the Bears rookie class. Let’s look at the numbers.

    The Bears had their top 5 picks play at least 10 games.

Round 1, Pick 8: Roquan Smith- 16 games

Round 2, Pick 39: James Daniels- 16 games

Round 2, Pick 51: Anthony Miller- 15 games

Round 4, Pick 115: Joel Iyiegbuniwe- 16 games

Round 5, Pick 145: Bilal Nichols- 14 games

    The Bears’ rookies were statistically at the top of their class.

Roquan Smith- 3rd in solo tackles among rookies (89), 5th in sacks (5)

Anthony Miller- 2nd in receiving touchdowns (7)

    The Bears’ rookies also proved to fill in holes as starters, or fill in other prominent roles.

Roquan Smith- linebacker

James Daniels- left guard/center

Anthony Miller- slot receiver

    Most importantly, the Bears improved as a team.

2015: 6-10

2016: 3-13

2017: 5-11

2018: 12-4

While the Bears were also benefitted by strong offseason acquisitions as well, it is clear by the talent of their recent draft choices that this team is set up for success in this division, and the league as a whole.

-By: Nick Selko