2018 NFL Redraft: Lamar Jackson saves the Cleveland Browns

8. Chicago Bears: Leighton Vander Esch, LB (Roquan Smith, LB)

The Bears selected Georgia linebacker, Roquan Smith with the eighth overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. In his first two seasons, Smith appeared in 28 games and amassed 222 tackles. A member of the 2018 NFL All-Rookie Team, Smith should make Pro Bowls in the future, but Vander Esch is already a superstar.

Vander Esch attended school at Boise State, where he posted a breakout performance in 2017. As a junior, the Idaho native amassed 141 tackles, finishing fifth in the NCAA. He also recorded 8.5 tackles for loss, four sacks, and two interceptions.

Vander Esch’s versatility and 6-4, 256-pound frame caught the eye of the Dallas Cowboys, who called his name at 19th overall. However, Chicago won’t let the former Boise State Bronco slip outside of the top ten selection.

As a rookie, Vander Esch recorded 140 tackles in 16 games, made the Pro Bowl, and earned a Second-Team All-Pro selection. Unfortunately, he only appeared in nine games last year as a neck injury ultimately ended his season.

According to CBS Sports’ Patrik Walker, Vander Esch is fully healed and ready for the 2020 season. In an interview with Bobby Belt and Jane Slater of ‘The ‘Boys & Girl Podcast,’ the linebacker looked forward to the upcoming year.

"I am doing wonderful. I feel as good now as I ever have, before I even got hurt. I mean I’m ready to roll. I’ve been training full-go for a couple of months now, so it’s not holding me back whatsoever."

After missing so much time, Vander Esch is ready to get back on the field.

"I feel just as good as I ever have. I’m just excited to play football at this point and get back on the field and, like I said, whenever they give us the green light to go — we’re going to be ready. From that time on, it’s full-go and don’t let off the gas pedal."

The Bears didn’t make a bad move when they drafted Smith, but Vander Esch is a different beast.