Chicago Bears: Grading every 2018 NFL Draft pick

Grade: B+

Bilal Nichols was seen by most as a early Day 3 talent, so this pick makes plenty of sense for the Bears. It’s more than just his draft placement that earned this selection a “B+” grade, though.

One of Chicago’s bigger needs heading into the draft was at defensive end. Although Nichols is listed as a defensive tackle, he offers versatile enough of a skill set to slide outside in the Bears’ 3-4 front. He’s an exceptional athlete for his size, and brings enough initial burst off the snap to provide some pass-rush upside as well.

At this moment, though, the Delaware product is relatively raw and will take some time to develop. Still, he’s an intriguing talent who fills a need and can help upgrade the Bears defensive line when his time comes to step into the rotation.

I know this is a similar situation to the previous pick, but it fills a need instead of touching on one that was already addressed earlier. Nichols is also more tantalizing of an athlete with all of the measurables you look for in an impact defensive lineman. Don’t be surprised if he develops into an integral part of the Chicago defensive line rotation before long.