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Chicago Bears Trade Up, Land Leonard Floyd: Instant Analysis

By Dan Schmelzer

Nov 7, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) works against Kentucky Wildcats offensive tackle Jordan Swindle (70) during the first half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Kentucky 27-3. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 7, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) works against Kentucky Wildcats offensive tackle Jordan Swindle (70) during the first half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Kentucky 27-3. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Chicago Bears traded up two picks to land a pass rusher with massive upside. Leonard Floyd could become a major impact player for the Bears.

When the trade between the Chicago Bears and Tampa Bay Buccaneers was announced, I was sure that it was the Bears coming up for offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil. However, as Tunsil continues to slide, the Bears scooped up edge rusher Leonard Floyd.

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Floyd was a high-rising prospect late in the 2016 NFL Draft process, continually being connected to teams picking in the top ten. Obviously feeling that they had to jump the New York Giants to get the guy who they wanted, the Bears gave up a fourth round selection to land Floyd at number nine.

Pernell McPhee is a strong player on the outside for the Bears, but they clearly lacked an impact pass rusher from the outside linebacker position in their 3-4 defense. Floyd did not put up huge production in college, but he was moved around far too often by the Georgia coaching staff.

Floyd needs to be a consistent outside pass rusher at the next level. With his ridiculously fast first-step, great natural bend around the edge and elite-level athleticism, Floyd has a chance to be an absolute star on the edge for the Bears.

Vic Fangio is one of the best defensive coordinators in the NFL, and is going to get the best out of his talent. He is an extremely raw player who needs to be more consistent at the next level, but Floyd has a chance to be an absolute star pass rusher in the NFL. Adding him to the mix in Fangio’s 3-4 defense is a great situation for him.

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It may not have been exactly what I expected, but Ryan Pace and the Bears made another strong move in the draft here. Having an impact pass rusher is among the most important parts of a successful football team in today’s NFL, and Leonard Floyd has a chance to be special.

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