Chicago Bears four round mock draft after blockbuster trade
No. 54 Derrick Hall, Edge, Auburn
A pass rusher is a necessity, and this draft doesn’t have any elite guys outside of Will Anderson. So, a player like Derrick Hall will be available in the second round — the bears shouldn’t pass up on an opportunity to draft him. During his college tenure, Hall accounted for 84 pressures, 27 QB hits, and 22 sacks in four seasons. He has an explosive and dense build with long limbs, making him a strong edge setter and run defender.
Despite being dropped into coverage more than necessary, his 4.55 40 at the 2023 NFL Combine adds to his potential in coverage and as a pass rusher. Hall’s A-trait is his ability to convert speed to power and use his heavy and powerful hands to impact the quarterback. However, he needs to develop his rush plan and hand-to-hand combat skills. While he is not the most flexible rusher, his traits make him an enticing long-term starting EDGE/OLB.
No. 62 – Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State
In the NFC North, the Bears need guys that can cover. Emmanuel Forbes is a talented cornerback with excellent coverage versatility and football intelligence. He is a physical defender who is particularly effective in press alignment, where he uses his two-hand jabs to disrupt the timing between the receiver and quarterback. Forbes also demonstrates good instincts, which allows him to quickly read and react to the play, and he has an impressive ability to make plays on the ball at a consistent and high rate.
Despite his strengths, Forbes has limitations due to his slim build and tendency to be overly aggressive in coverage. This can lead to issues with bigger and more physical NFL receivers, as well as being susceptible to double moves. He also needs to improve his technique and discipline in coverage to prevent being out-positioned by opponents.
At the end of the day, Forbes projects as a true perimeter and outside cornerback, with the potential to become a CB2. His ball production, coverage versatility, and football intelligence are his biggest assets.