Several Chicago Bears Options Stood Out In Senior Bowl Game

The Chicago Bears were rather quiet in terms of grabbing Senior Bowl prospects in 2018 and 2019. They didn't draft anybody either of those two years. That changed this past offseason when they added Trevis Gipson and Kindle Vildor in the 5th round. Both were standouts during the week leading up to that game. Vildor soon became a credible contributor to their secondary. Could GM Ryan Pace continue that trend in 2021? Anything is possible. One thing is for sure. There were a number of interesting names who stood out this past week and in the game itself. Names that look like they'd be quality additions to the roster. Here are some of them including a couple the Bears actually met with in person.

Chicago Bears got plenty of good tape from Senior Bowl

Kellen Mond (QB, Texas A&M)

Most of the focus all week was on Mac Jones of Alabama. He's the Heisman finalist, the national champion, and the future 1st round pick. People seemed to forget about Mond who had a pretty decent season at Texas A&M with 19 TDs and just three interceptions. Not to mention four rushing touchdowns. There are concerns about the speed of his processor and pocket poise but when he has time he can fire some lasers. Despite only completing 13-of-25 on the afternoon, those 13 went for 175 yards and two touchdowns, earning him MVP honors. Mond has the look of a classic development upside prospect.

Michael Carter (RB, North Carolina)

The Chicago Bears representatives reportedly met with Carter during the week after practices. It's not hard to see why. The Tarheels product has an intriguing mix of speed, quickness, and contact balance that make him difficult to defend. He can run hard for extra yards but is also a threat in the passing game. He led all Senior Bowl backs with 60 yards rushing. The next closest had 18. He also had two catches for 15 yards. This kid has game and would make for an intriguing addition to the Bears' backfield with David Montgomery and Tarik Cohen.

Dez Fitzpatrick (WR, Louisville)

This kid was a revelation the entire week in Mobile and then transferred it to a standout performance on Saturday. Fitzpatrick has an intriguing mix of size (6'2) to go along with long arms, strong hands, and great body control. He has a tendency to make tough catches look routine. While not a burner in terms of speed, he's got more juice than he gets credit for. His route running needs sharpening but that is typical of receivers coming out of college. The 90 yards on six catches he had was proof enough he can ball.

Dillon Radunz (OT, North Dakota State)

Offensive tackle has to be a focal point of this draft cycle for Chicago. They've lived off later round picks and free agents for too long. It's time for a serious investment. Word is they have an eye on Radunz after meeting with him during the week. It isn't hard to see why. The guy has the size, quickness, power, and violent hand technique. He was one of the best blockers on the field during the game, routinely keeping his quarterbacks clean. It's becoming apparent the 1st round buzz that followed him from North Dakota State was proving justified.

Patrick Jones II (EDGE, Pitt)

Something that must be kept in mind. Khalil Mack turns 30 this year. Robert Quinn turns 31. The Chicago Bears edge rush is still talent but age is becoming a big factor. They have to start thinking about the future. Trevis Gipson remains an unknown quantity. So why not add Patrick Jones to the mix. He certainly has ability. He's quick, explosive, strong, and has a high motor. His athleticism proves he can play 3-4 outside linebacker and the Senior Bowl allowed him to showcase everything. He has 17.5 sacks the past two years at Pitt with 24 tackles for a loss. This guy spends a lot of time in the opposing backfield.