As time has gone on, Chicago Bears GM Ryan Pace has developed a reputation for having good eyes for certain position groups. Most will point to the defensive line, running back, and safety as three areas he's really excelled. However, not enough people give him credit for the work he's done at inside linebacker. Danny Trevathan? Jerrell Freeman? Roquan Smith? Nick Kwiatkoski? All have made quality contributions on defense dating back to 2016.
So it's fair to say that whenever the Bears show any kind of interest in a linebacker, it might be smart to pay close attention. They just might have some serious skills. According to Bryan Perez of NBC Sports, the Bears were spotted talking to one notable favorite among the scouting community at the Senior Bowl during the first day of practice. His name is Akeem Davis-Gaither of Appalachian State.
The Bears have no fewer than three inside linebackers coming out of contract. In addition to Trevathan and Kwiatkoski, dependable reserve Kevin Pierre-Louis will also be a free agent. So it's not a surprise the Bears are eyeing alternatives in the upcoming draft. Based on the production and the film, Davis-Gaither has plenty to offer.
Chicago Bears love athletes on defense and this kid is that
Davis-Gaither was an absolute stat machine during his last two years. He produced 197 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, and an interception. It didn't matter if he was being brought as an extra blitzer or dropping into coverage. He always seemed to find his way to the football. The general consensus around him is he's fast, agile, aggressive, and has nice instincts for his position. The big problem is he's undersized. He was listed at just 215 lbs in college.
For context, Trevathan weighs 237 lbs and he's considered a bit undersized. This means if Davis-Gaither wants to survive with the big boys in the NFL, it would be wise for him to add weight. Probably around 15 lbs at least. Preferably more. The trick will be doing so without losing what makes him so good. That range and coverage ability. Current projections have him going somewhere on Day 3 of the draft. That feels like the exact area the Bears would target depth help at the position.
Hence their interest.
