Chicago Bears: Grading every 2019 NFL Draft pick

This one is a head-scratcher at first. At his pre-draft press conference Pace tried to convince everyone that the Bears might not even take a running back. Of course, not many believed any of that but to go out and pick up two running backs?

As with the Shelley pick, Pace could have gone after other players who could contribute more. Also, there were others at other positions who could have contributed and offered more depth. Pace, however, decided to go after another running back. Perhaps he wants Whyte to help in another position.

Kerrith Whyte backed up Devin Singletary at FAU. In 2018, he carried the ball 134 times for 866 yards (6.5 yards per carry average) and eight touchdowns. He added 10 catches for 160 yards and two touchdowns receiving. In addition, he was a good returner. He averaged 28.7 yards per kick return and had a touchdown. He was impressive in scoring, finding the end zone 10 times in 144 touches.

Paring Whyte with Patterson could help the Bears improve greatly in returns. They struggled to try to give the offense better field position on drives. The Bears look like they want to put up a lot of points in 2019. They have flexibility on offense, with a bunch of receivers who go up and fight for the ball and make ridiculous catches.

As a running back, Whyte has good speed to go around the corner. He also has good explosiveness and uses good cuts to avoid would-be tacklers. He probably won’t get to see very many snaps in the backfield, but he’s already used to that and he makes the most of his opportunities.

Grade: C; If he can be as explosive in the next level, he could be a steal.