Chicago Bears: 7-Round 2018 mock draft after free agency first wave

It seems like the Chicago Bears spent 20 years looking for safeties. They suffered through players like Chris Conte and Major Wright. This season, however, they have the combination of Adrian Amos and Eddie Jackson. They are two young, athletic safeties and both had very good years in 2017.

Even so, the Bears could try to add some depth. It’s nice to know that this team can draft a safety without hoping he becomes a savior. The team is in a position to draft a safety, and if it works great. If not, it’s not a killer. If the Bears take a flyer on a safety, why not take it on a local player?

Goodwin Igwebuike was a three-year starter and a captain on the 2017 team. He is a tough player who can play near the line of scrimmage. In addition, he can play nickel linebacker, adding flexibility. He is a hard hitter, and bursts onto the ball carrier. While he may lack the height preferred at his spot, he has good leaping ability and the long arms needed to get to the ball. He pulled in seven interceptions in his career.

Next: Grading the Bears early free agent moves

He does struggle when he needs to cover in man-to-man. He is sometimes too slow to recognize a play. Igwebuike can provide some depth to the defense. He isn’t the best safety but at this point, the Bears don’t need that. They just need someone who can play in rotation. He can do that plus play well on special teams.