2016 NFL Mock Draft: Complete Two Round Predictions

DE. Oregon. DeForest Buckner. 1.11. player. 57. The Chicago Bears’ defense over-achieved in 2015, and they still finished as the 20th ranked scoring defense. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio did an incredible job with what he had to work with, but the Bears are in a desperate need of adding not only more talented to their defense, but players who strongly fit Fangio’s 3-4 defense. DeForest Buckner fits that criteria to perfection. <p> </p> <p>With ideal size (6-foot-7, 290 pounds), length and obvious strength, Buckner is an absolute perfect fit to be a five-technique defensive end in the Bears’ 3-4 defense. His ability to eat-up opposing blockers and allow his teammates to make plays is great, but Buckner brings so much more to the table than that.</p> <p>His combination of power and athleticism is elite, and allows Buckner to make plays in the backfield on a consistent basis. He is a strong run defender who will single-handily shut down the running game on his side of the field at times. While a 3-4 defensive end is not typically thought of as a strong pass rusher, Buckner has ideal pass rushing talent that could really allow him to shine in that department in the NFL as well.</p> <p>His combination of length, athleticism and strength makes Buckner a nearly impossible player to consistently block. The Bears need defensive play-makers who fit their system, and there may not be a player in this draft class who fits that description as well as Buckner.</p>