The Chicago Bears entourage was in full force at the USC pro day with expected heavy hitters. GM Ryan Poles, head coach Matt Eberflus, offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, passing game coordinator Thomas Brown, and quarterbacks coach Kerry Joseph were all there to watch quarterback Caleb Williams work out. So it shouldn't be a surprise that the same retinue popped up at the Michigan pro day as well, ready to see what fellow projected 1st round pick J.J. McCarthy puts together. However, there was one twist to this story.
According to Senior Bowl director Jim Nagy, there was an additional name with the group this time: wide receivers coach Chris Beatty. Obviously, he isn't there to watch the quarterbacks. This means the Bears are interested in at least one of the Michigan wide receivers. By far, the most talked-about is Roman Wilson, fresh off a 12-touchdown season for the Wolverines and a tremendous showing at the Senior Bowl. His mix of speed, acceleration, strong hands, and toughness are all qualities the Bears seem to covet at that position.
The Chicago Bears are right to like Wilson.
Not only is he a dynamic playmaker, but he's an unselfish one. He spent his entire college career in a run-first offense at Michigan, embracing the responsibilities of a blocker. Many feel the lack of playing in a more wide open offense hurt his draft stock. It's unlikely he cares about that since a national championship ring is coming his way. There is little doubt he should have a productive pro career ahead of him. Projections have him going at some point on Day 2 of the draft. Chicago could land him in the 3rd round if he lasts that long.
Wilson isn't the only notable name, though. The Chicago Bears could also be looking at Cornelius Johnson. While not as dynamic, he's a bigger target with great leaping ability and is a much better run blocker. He improved greatly at making contest catches. His problem primarily lay with poor route-running technique. Beatty would no doubt love to see if he can fix that. It isn't hard to understand if the Bears are interested in either player. They fit the identity this team wants to have.
