This will be the last
Chicago Bears 2022 mock draft. The previous ones have explored loads of possible outcomes and different ways the team might approach the action. This time it will be done with the best efforts to determine what GM Ryan Poles will try to accomplish on Friday and Saturday. It will be based on all the rumors heard and the words stated by the man himself.
There is no predicting what players may be available to the Bears, but certain projections can be made. It's clear what the team's needs are and where they may prefer to focus based on the backgrounds of the men in charge. Of course, it could all be a clever ruse to keep the focus away from other positions they're targeting. Truth be told, this one feels straightforward. So let's begin.
Chicago Bears 2022 mock draft based on predicted outcome
Trade: #39 pick to Baltimore for #45 pick and #110 pick
2nd round (via BAL) - Cole Strange, OG, Tennessee-Chattanooga
Everything points to two things. Poles wants to trade down for more picks and bolster the offensive line. I believe that will be the goal. In this case, he can move down six spots in exchange for a 4th rounder. All while still
securing a blocker that fits this offense perfectly. Strange has good size, mobility, technique, and displays that "prick-ish" nature the regime seeks. He has the versatility to play anywhere on the interior right away.
Trade: #48 pick to New England for #54 pick and #127 pick
2nd round (via NE) - Perrion Winfrey, DT, Oklahoma
Poles does the same thing twice. He moves down a few spots with his other 2nd rounder for another 4th round pick. Again he targets the trenches, this time on the defensive side. Chicago was hurt by their failure to secure Larry Ogunjobi in free agency. They need an interior pass rush presence to make this defense work. Winfrey wasn't always utilized that way by the Sooners but showed at the Senior Bowl he can be a game-wrecker in this fashion. His motor, length, and quickness are the exact attributes they're seeking.
3rd round - Alec Pierce, WR, Cincinnati
It is a foregone conclusion they'll take a wide receiver. This Bears 2022 mock draft wouldn't be realistic without that happening. It's a matter of when. The 3rd round is still on the higher end, where they can nab somebody that can contribute immediately. Pierce is someone the team has met with several times, which indicates interest. He's big, strong, and fast. A good vertical threat that fits Justin Fields' strengths as a quarterback. He will need to enhance his route running to fully take off, though.
4th round (via BAL) - Kerby Joseph, S, Illinois
Getting five interceptions in your first full season as a safety is something to take note of. Joseph flashed good athleticism and ball skills for Illinois, and he wasn't even sure how to play his position at times. That means he should only get better with more experience. Defensive coordinator Alan Williams is a defensive back specialist. He'd be a perfect mentor for the promising talent.
4th round (via NE) - Dominique Robinson, EDGE, Miami (Ohio)
After a slow start to his college career, Robinson started to flash his significant pass rush upside in 2021 with 4.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for a loss. He's still scratching the surface of his potential. The technique and fundamentals need work. His athleticism, length, and burst are all there. So is the hustle and effort. With Robert Quinn likely in his last season, the Bears need to think about their pass rush future.
5th round (via HOU) - Jesse Luketa, LB, Penn State
Linebacker is another crucial position in Eberflus' defense. Poles referenced how good the depth is this year, so he takes advantage. Luketa is the classic strong-side linebacker. He's got great size and length, plays with violence, can set the edge against the run, and is renowned for his leadership and unselfishness. A true dirty work kind of guy. He may not be an every-down player, but coaches always find ways to use players like him.
5th round - Spencer Burford, OT, UTSA
This Bears 2022 mock draft figured to end with more focus on the offense. Tackle is another position with serious depth questions for them. Burford is a classic developmental prospect. While somewhat raw and unproven against top competition, he's big, physical, and athletic. His feet are also quick for his size, meaning he should be able to handle NFL speed on the edge. This is an issue of cleaning up his fundamental problems.
6th round - Jalen Nailor, WR, Michigan State
Poles said that the Bears would focus on speed moving forward. They want it everywhere. It's a policy he learned well from Kansas City. Nailor checks that box in a big way. He was a constant deep threat with 19.8 and 18.8 yards per catch during his final two seasons for the Spartans. When he's healthy, he is a problem for defenses. Injuries have hampered him, so this is a calculated risk.
