2018 NFL Draft: Chicago Bears 7-round mock draft in early December
Round 4, Pick 112: Donte Jackson, CB, LSU
Pace made changes to the cornerback unit this past offseason. He added Prince Amukamara and Marcus Cooper. Amukamara played well, covering well and forcing receivers to alter their routes. Cooper is mainly a rotational player and special teams player.
Amukamara signed just a one-year deal. As a free agent, some other teams might be interested in his services. I think he deserves more time in Chicago, however. Even if he does come back, the Bears still need added depth to the unit.
Donte Jackson is a speedster. Bleacher Report had him as the fastest player in college football. He can keep up with just about anyone around. He placed in the top 10 in the SEC in passes defended the last two seasons. In his career, the junior recorded 107 tackles (three for loss), had four interceptions and 19 passes defended.
Jackson has the ability to hold his ground and force the receiver to alter his route. Many times, when a quarterback throws an interception, the throw may have been good but if the cornerback moves the receiver he gets him out of place. Jackson doesn’t shy away from contact. He’ll tackle a receiver up high or down low. He does whatever he needs to get him down.
He also has an edge to him. In a game against Tennessee, late in the fourth quarter, he flipped the bird to Tennessee fans. Now, I don’t condone such actions, but I like having a defender who plays with passion. Some of the players the Bears have look like they’re only there for a paycheck. Yes, they all want to play, but if you don’t love to play, you won’t last long and won’t do much to help the team.
Jackson improved his coverage skills this season. He was a raw talent the first two seasons, but became a little more polished and didn’t depend solely on his speed. He keeps saying he has the best hands in college, but he needs to work on securing the ball. Getting Jackson in the fourth round adds needed help in the Chicago Bears secondary.