Alshon Jeffery

Chicago Bears 4-Round 2017 Mock Draft: Wheel and Deal

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 10:35 p.m. ET

Fansided, Erik Lambert/FanSided via NFL Mocks

Oct 15, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers safety Jamal Adams (33) celebrates after picking up a fumble during the third quarter of a game against the Southern Miss Golden Eagles at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Bears could end up with their highest pick in a draft since 1972 depending on the outcome of the game in Minnesota in Week 17.

That undoubtedly will make this coming April the most important month in a long time for the franchise. Fans have long since reached their breaking point with the lack of direction this team seems to have and the constant disappointment of losing. If they can hit this draft with the same success as they did in 2016, there is a chance things could change in a big way.

Bears get #6 pick, 2nd in 2017 and 2nd in 2018

1st Round (via NYJ)

Jamal Adams

S, LSU

Following a trade with the Jets to drop down to #6, GM Ryan Pace sets about correcting the problem. Jabrill Peppers gets a ton of hype but many people are coming around to the truth. Jamal Adams is the best safety in this draft class. He’s got a skill set that the best ones are made out of: big, strong, tough, athletic and faster than he gets credit for. Most of his plays are made with instinct and violence in the box but it will be his ability to cover tight ends the Bears will covet most.

Sep 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (10) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Cardinals 23-21. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Bears get QB Jimmy Garoppolo

TRADE WITH PATRIOTS

Jimmy Garoppolo

QB, New England

Jimmy Garoppolo makes the most sense. He’s only 25-years old and has some starting experience. He was 2-0 in both games. The former 2nd round pick has a lightning quick release, a strong arm, mobility and reportedly prepares every bit as hard as the man he backs up in Tom Brady. If Dowell Loggains had such considerable success with Brian Hoyer, another disciple of the Patriots system, imagine what he might do with Garoppolo who is more talented.

Sep 17, 2016; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels tight end Evan Engram (17) runs the ball during the game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Alabama won 48-43. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports

3rd Round

Evan Engram

TE, Ole Miss

Thankfully the 2017 class is rich in tight end talent, specifically the pass catching variety. Evan Engram is one such type. Most have compared him to Washington Redskins star Jordan Reed. He’s not quite big enough to be a blocker, but his speed, athleticism and route running prowess have made him a nightmare for linebackers and safeties all year long. Put him on the field between Alshon Jeffery, Cameron Meredith and a healthy Kevin White and this team may have something.

Oct 22, 2016; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back Chris Evans (12) loose his helmet after he is tackled by Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Carroll Phillips (6) in the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

4th Round

Ezra Robinson

CB, Tennessee State

Vic Fangio continues his search for defensive backs who can make plays for him. Expect the Bears to single out quality corners who not only bring size, but also show ball skills. Similar to what they did with Deiondre Hall. Ezra Robinson had five interceptions this year for Tennessee State. He’s got athletic prowess and a 6’1″ frame. So he meets all the criteria of what this team is looking for. It’s a matter of giving him an opportunity.

4th Round (via BUF)

Carroll Phillips

OLB, Illinois

There are whispers of off-the-field concerns surrounding Illinois pass rusher Carroll Phillips. What exactly they are is still unclear, but that will likely drop him from a possible 2nd round pick to the mid round range. There is no denying his athletic ability. He looks like a pure 3-4 outside linebacker with his explosiveness off the edge and ability to bend. In addition to nine sacks he had an absurd 20 tackles for loss in 2016 alone. The guy knows how to make plays in the backfield.