Ryan Poles understands how difficult getting to the NFL can be. That might explain why he has a soft spot for taking calculated gambles on players from smaller schools. He took Braxton Jones out of Southern Utah and Ja'Tyre Carter out of Southern in 2022. Last year, it was Travis Bell from Kennesaw State. If he gets the right opportunity going into this draft, don't be surprised if he does it again. It comes down to which players he may have an eye for. There is no shortage of intriguing names worth watching.
We know the Chicago Bears GM likes players with strong athletic backgrounds. That said, he's not averse to taking calculated gambles on highly productive ones. Here are some names that make a lot of sense if the team gets creative on Day 3.
Ryan Poles is sure to have deep notes on these players.
Cole Burgess (WR, Cortland State)
If you're coming from a Division III program, one box must be checked as a draft prospect. Did you dominate your level of competition? For Burgess, the answer is yes. He was unstoppable in 2023, going for 1300 yards and 16 touchdowns while guiding his team to a national championship. He's 6'1 and 200 lbs with solid 4.45 speed. Better still, he's not only a capable pass catcher but also dangerous as a kick returner. That brings added value for the Bears after the league rule changes. His fundamentals as a router-runner need a lot of work, but the foundation is there.
Mason McCormick (OG, South Dakota State)
Big, long, and athletic—that is how Ryan Poles likes his linemen. McCormick is all of those things after a successful college career. He was a three-time team captain, showcasing his tremendous leadership qualities. His injury history is squeaky clean, and he's developed a reputation for playing with some attitude. While somewhat tight and mechanical in his approach, nobody can dispute he gets the job done. It may take him some time to get used to the speed and complexity of the NFL level, but guys like him tend to play in the league for a long time.
Jalen Green (EDGE, James Madison)
At first glance, this is a tough sell. Green is 6'1 and 245 lbs. That is short and light for the typical edge players the Bears prefer. He's also an average athlete. If this is the case, why bother mentioning him? Namely because he was unblockable throughout the 2023 season, stockpiling 15.5 sacks and 21 tackles for a loss in just nine games. This wasn't only against cupcake competition too. He dominated Virginia, Troy, and Marshall. He has a deep pass rush arsenal, good strength, and a non-stop motor. Players like him are worth a flier.
Shon Stephens (CB, Ferris State)
There are a few things working in Stephens' favor. For one, he had 16(!) interceptions over his final two college seasons. Production like that is always going to attract NFL attention, especially from a turnover-minded coaching staff like this one. For another, he's the cousin of Pittsburgh Steelers standout Joey Porter Jr. So you know he has the genetics to make it at the pro level. Last but not least, he posted 4.37 speed at his pro day. It might be difficult to overlook his 5'9 size, but Stephens makes plays. Smart coaches like Matt Eberflus can make use of somebody like him.
Khristian Boyd (DT, Northern Iowa)
A defensive tackle is a critical part of any 4-3 defense. Boyd isn't the biggest or longest for his position, but the kid is tough and strong and understands how to create interior pressure. He's also got the strength to stand his ground against the run. His primary issues stem from various technical issues. Veteran offensive linemen would have a field day finessing him to death. New defensive coordinator Eric Washington would clean all of that up in no time. He'd make for a solid rotational backup.
