The 2020 NFL draft is a year away and far from the minds of Chicago Bears fans. They're focused on what could and should be another playoff season. At least that's their expectations. Apparently, one that not everybody seems to share. Take Todd McShay for example. The ESPN draft analyst indirectly made his prediction for the Bears clear.
It came via his early projections for the 2020 draft. One where the Bears will go their second-straight season without a 1st round pick courtesy of the Khalil Mack trade. That pick is held by the Oakland Raiders. So where will they be selecting according to McShay? Much higher than one might think.
13. Las Vegas Raiders (via Chicago Bears)
Isaiah Simmons, OLB, Clemson*
Jon Gruden continues to rebuild with early picks, thanks to this apparent regression by the Bears. A converted safety, Simmons is all over the field for Clemson. He made nine tackles in the national title game in January. On the season, Simmons made 89 tackles, including 9.5 for loss, and had 1.5 sacks and three forced fumbles.
Chicago Bears 1st round pick in 2020 is anything but set in stone
For those who need some context, the team that held the 13th overall pick in the 2019 draft this year were the Miami Dolphins. They finished the seasons 7-9. Same goes for the Washington Redskins the year before. That pretty much locks in what McShay thinks the Bears' record will be this season. A huge step back from where they were.
He didn't offer any explanation for the supposed regression. Was it due to injuries? A tougher schedule? A resurgent NFC North? Nothing. All things considered, it seems like a bit of a stretch given how talented the Bears are. They already have one of the best defenses in the NFL and spent most of the offseason stockpiling more weapons on offense.
Maybe they won't have a 12-4 record like last year, but 7-9? A lot would have to go wrong in order for that to happen.
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