Free agency is complete, and the 2022 NFL draft is upon us.
The Bears made waves during the offseason by trading Khalil Mack and have added key free agents to the roster. New general manager Ryan Poles and new head coach Matt Eberflus will look to the NFL draft to continue to put their imprint on the roster.
Unfortunately, the Bears only have six draft picks, including none in the first round, to work with. But Poles made it clear that he’s open to trading back to acquire more draft capital.
Here is our final seven-round mock draft, where the Bears address some important needs on offense and defense.
Round 2, Pick 39: WR Christian Watson, North Dakota State
AP Photo/Butch Dill
With their first pick in the second round, the Bears select Christian Watson, giving Justin Fields a young, long-term option at receiver to pair with rising star Darnell Mooney. He’s an exciting combination of size and speed, standing 6’4 and 208 pounds and running a 4.36 40-yard dash. He’s an immediate WR3 for the Bears with the potential to become a starter.
Round 2, Pick 48: S Jalen Pitre, Baylor
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The Bears select Jalen Pitre with their second pick in the second round at No. 48 overall, solidifying the safety position. Pitre is a versatile safety who can play deep safety or as a sub-package linebacker in the box. This Baylor safety is an intelligent player who can thrive in a cover-2 defense.
Round 3, Pick 71: EDGE Sam Williams, Mississippi
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In the third round, the Bears select Sam Williams to provide depth behind aging pass rusher Robert Quinn. Williams, who stands 6’4 and weighs 265 pounds, is an explosive pass rusher who can play inside at three-technique. While Williams could improve aspects of his game, his pass-rush ability is exciting.