2018 NFL Draft: Chicago Bears 7-round mock draft in early December

Round 2, Pick 38: Tyquan Lewis, EDGE, Ohio State

The Bears have a question when it comes to Pernell McPhee. McPhee is great when he’s on the field, but keeping him healthy is a problem. He missed seven games last season and this season he’s missed extended times on the field during games. He’s had trouble with his knee ever since he signed with the Bears, but in the last game against the Niners he suffered a shoulder injury and left the game early.

With his injury history, the Bears need to decide whether or not to stay with him. It just so happens that there is an out in place for McPhee after this season. If they keep him, he has two years and $16.575 million owed. Would the Bears want to pay that given his injury history?

Tyquan Lewis is on the first team All-Big Ten by both the coaches and the media. He is a powerful pass rusher. According to Pro Football Focus, he applied a bull rush pressure every 18 rushes, ranking second in the draft class. That power also helps him against the run. If he and Floyd can seal their sides on runs ( a difficulty for the Bears), they force the runner to the middle, where Akiem Hicks and Eddie Goldman are to meet him.

For his career, Lewis has 107 tackles (35 for loss), and 22.5 sacks. Additionally, he has 4 forced fumbles. He played mainly as a defensive end at Ohio State but is athletic enough to also play outside linebacker. Even if the Bears decide to keep McPhee, they may limit his snaps and Lewis can step in and help there. Once it’s time to say goodbye to McPhee, Lewis is a great replacement.