Chicago Bears: Grading every 2019 NFL Draft pick

Pace surprised people again with this pick. While some speculated the Bears would pick up one of the more known defensive backs, Pace goes with Duke Shelley. While The others get more attention, Shelley went out and did his job without much fanfare.

Shelley was Pro Football Focus’ highest-rated cornerback in the Big 12 (per Twitter) and rated him in the top 10 overall in the FBS in 2018. Opposing offenses targeted him 53 times and he allowed 27 catches (50.9 percent completion rate), and two touchdowns while grabbing three interceptions and nine passes defended. Quarterbacks had just a 52.0 passer rating against him.

Shelley wasn’t invited to the NFL Combine and there was concern about him missing the last five games of the 2018 season but opened some eyes with his speed and athleticism during his Pro Day. Some scouts had him as an undrafted rookie but after that performance teams took notice.

He ran a 4.46-second 40, so he can keep up with the speedy receivers in the league. He is physical going after the ball, finishing with 8 interceptions. Additionally, he provides good run support and closes the edge well.

At 5-9, 182 pounds Shelley is a little undersized. He also has a tendency to get off-balance. Even though he has good speed, he sometimes reacts slowly to moves at the line of scrimmage. Also, he sometimes doesn’t wrap properly and can miss tackles.

Shelley could provide some help at the nickel to begin his career, but after a season under his belt, he could contribute more and possibly challenge for a starting position. While he could work out, there were other cornerbacks Pace could’ve picked up who could contribute more right away.

Grade: C; There were other defensive backs available who could contribute earlier.