Bears' Pre-Draft Assessment Intensifies as Carter Visit Looms
Ryan Poles and the Chicago Bears' crucial NFL draft research hits a pivotal moment on Monday, as Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter is set to visit Halas Hall for a pre-draft meeting, according to Carter's agent Drew Rosenhaus who spoke with ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Once a projected top-five pick with a shot at going No. 1 overall after the college football season, Carter's draft stock has since taken a hit. Concerns about his maturity, passion for football, and legal issues�stemming from a no-contest plea to misdemeanor racing and reckless driving charges related to a tragic car crash involving the death of a Georgia teammate and staffer�have caused Carter's standing to drop.
Adding to the decline, Carter's pro day performance was underwhelming, as he weighed in nine pounds heavier and could not complete his position drill.
The Bears were present at Carter's pro day and had a chance to meet the 21-year-old. Poles has emphasized that the combine, pro day, and Monday's upcoming meeting are all integral to the Bears' pre-draft information-gathering process.
On April 27, Poles and the Bears might face a difficult decision.
The Bears failed to tackle their pressing need for a dynamic three-technique during free agency. Head coach Matt Eberflus has emphasized the crucial role that position holds in the success of his strategy.
This gap is something the Bears must address soon.
In theory, Carter embodies the ideal player for the Bears' needs. He is arguably the draft's most skilled prospect, and if he slips to the No. 9 spot, Poles will face a monumental choice.
A decision that could become an early defining moment in his tenure.
| POLL | ||
3 AVRIL | 83 ANSWERS Bears' Pre-Draft Assessment Intensifies as Carter Visit Looms Should the Bears select Jalen Carter if he falls to the 9th pick? | ||
| Yes | 46 | 55.4 % |
| No | 37 | 44.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
