Chicago Bears: 5 Outside linebackers to target in 2018 NFL Draft

Arden Key, Louisiana State: 6–6, 238 pounds

Arden Key may be the most talented edge-rushing linebacker in this year’s draft. He has the size and athleticism most teams want. In 31 career games, he recorded 20 sacks and 24.5 tackles for loss so he finds the opponent’s backfield very well. He is slippery, making him very difficult for blockers to get to him. Additionally, he plays both the inside and outside very well.

The main problem with Key is off the field. In 2017 he took time away from the team for personal reasons. Neither Key, his family, or LSU elaborated on what those reasons were. Also, when he came back, his weight ballooned to 270. As a result, a wide array of rumors spread about why he left.

Key came back but his 2017 season was disappointing. If his problems are behind him, however, whatever team drafts him could get a steal. Because of those problems, experts expect him to go in the fourth round.

The Bears could be one of those teams. They already had success by taking a chance on safety Eddie Jackson (though it was because of an injury and not personal problems) and it turned out great. Pace is scheduled to meet with Key and likely whatever questions about Key may be answered. Key says he’s been upfront with other teams who interviewed him. Could lightning strike twice for the Bears?