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

Lorenzo Carter, Georgia: 6-6, 250 pounds

The Chicago Bears could decide to pair former college teammates together. Floyd and Lorenzo Carter played well together with the Bulldogs and it’ll be nice if they combine to repeat that in Chicago.

Carter is another player in this draft who has optimal size and very good athleticism. Also, he has 4.50-second 40 speed. He can move from sideline to sideline well. Having two freakish linebackers on the edge gives the Bears a scary pass rush.

Carter was one of the most-recruited players coming out of high school. His career in Georgia didn’t turn out to match the hype, though. He had a pretty good freshman season but fell out of favor in his sophomore season and started just two games and had only 19 tackles. His play left much to be desired at times, but he ended his college career on a high note with a very good 2017 season. He ended with career highs in tackles (62) and tackles for loss (8.5).

With that being said, Carter has the tools to be a very good pro. Having a long edge rusher is something teams crave, and the tall, long-armed Carter checks that box.

This is what NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein said about Carter:

"Carter played with increased toughness and confidence this year and his NFL potential began to reassert itself once again. Carter absolutely wrecked the Combine in just about every category and could be an outside linebacker in a 3-4 or 4-3 with sideline-to-sideline range and the tools to become a productive edge rusher in sub-packages. He needs to add more bulk, but he is a future NFL starter."

The right defensive coach who can tap into Carter’s abilities may unlock a world of good play from him. Having him play behind Lynch early on could be a blessing for him. He can play a good number of snaps and get better, bulk up, and eventually take over the starting spot.