Draft Prospects Who Fit the Ryan Pace "Bears Box" for 2020

People who have followed the Chicago Bears in recent years have begun to learn about how GM Ryan Pace approached the NFL draft. His biggest thing is sticking to a mantra of always take the Best Player Available on the board, regardless of the position he plays. It's a method that has served him well in many ways, securing high-end talents like Eddie Goldman, Cody Whitehair, Jordan Howard, Eddie Jackson, Tarik Cohen, Roquan Smith, and Anthony Miller.

However, two years ago Pace also revealed there is an additional wrinkle with his evaluation process. He hinted at it following the 2017 draft. Apparently he and the front office establish something they call a "Bears Box." In essence, it is a block of players in a draft class who check every box for them. Not only are they standout athletes at their respective positions, but they also have strong reputations off the field both in terms of work ethic.

Look at all the top players on the roster. They each fit that exact model. It's a clear indication of the type of talent Pace wants on his roster. Injury history? Limited upside? Off-the-field problems and questionable effort? Don't be expected to see yourself in a Bears uniform. So to that end, it's time to ask that question again.

Which players in the 2020 draft class check the Bears box?

Ryan Pace will likely have an eye on these names

Anthony Gordon (QB, Washington State)

If you're looking for somebody Trubisky-like in this draft, Gordon fits the profile. A good athlete who stands 6'3 and features an underrated arm. He moves well and can throw the ball with consistent accuracy when not pressured too much. He's also known for being a fiery personality who will step up to lead his teammates when things get tough. He's had the most prolific season in school history with over 5,200 yards and 45 TDs passes. However, people are wary of him being a one-year starter. Just like Trubisky in 2017.

Colby Parkinson (TE, Stanford)

At 6'7, Parkinson is certainly one of the biggest targets in the 2020 draft. He's also an underrated athlete who's shown he can run and find space in opposing coverage. He had 589 yards this past year which is fairly good given how much Stanford prefers to run the ball. What sets him apart is how dedicated he is as a blocker. Most feel Parkinson is the best in the entire draft class at this. He'll provide solid pass protection and helps to drive open running lanes too. A smart, talented, and committed worker.

Lucas Niang (OT, TCU)

A two-year starter, Niang draws attention immediately for just being a giant of a man at 6'7, 330 lbs. He looks like somebody who can move guys out of the way whenever he wants and the tape does reflect this more than a few times. He's big but also long and surprisingly nimble. A good athlete for his size. While he has the usual technical flaws of a college lineman, he's consistent in his effort and plays with a bit of a nasty streak. A competitor who doesn't like to lose too often.

Curtis Weaver (EDGE, Boise State)

A lot of people may be too traumatized by the Shea McClellin debacle to consider drafting another Boise State pass rusher. Weaver though is so much more polished and proven than McClellin ever was. In three years, he had 34 sacks and 47.5 tackles for a loss for the Broncos. His power, quickness, and advanced technique stand out as huge reasons why he lives in the opposing backfield almost constantly. The motor is always running and his work ethic speaks for itself. He may not be the freak athlete Floyd was, but he definitely has that killer instinct.

Jaylon Johnson (CB, Utah)

A 3-4 defense requires not only cornerbacks who are athletic and somewhat long. It also needs them to be physical in press coverage. This is the ideal description of Johnson. He loves getting in the faces of every wide receiver he lines up against. However, he's able to balance this with strong technique and the patience to not get overextended. Not going to back down from anybody. He had six interceptions the past two years including two pick-sixes.