The Chicago Bears are two games away from locking down the #2 overall pick in the 2023 draft. That changes if they beat either the Detroit Lions or Minnesota Vikings. However, this is where things stand. If the scenario holds, then GM Ryan Poles will likely have his choice of any non-QB prospect in the entire class. Early projections say it will be a two-man race between Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson and Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter. Both prospects have their share of supporters among Bears fans.
So it might be interesting to get input from an actual former player. Not just any player, but one with intimate knowledge of the Bears’ scheme under Matt Eberflus. Corey Wootton played four seasons in Chicago. Three of them were under Lovie Smith, who ran almost the exact same system as Eberflus. He examined both draft prospects. There is no question that Anderson is a dynamic edge rusher that would be an instant upgrade for the Bears. However, in his mind, the pick is an easy choice from his perspective. Wootton explained this on the CHGO Bears Podcast.
Ryan Poles may acquiesce to Eberflus in this situation.
The Bear head coach has repeatedly said that the three-technique defensive tackle is the engine that drives the ship in his scheme. They are the guys that generate interior pressure while also commanding double teams in the run game. Whenever this system has such a player, it thrives. Go back and watch Warren Sapp, Tommie Harris, and DeForest Buckner for examples. Carter has the same capability as those players. He’s a terrifying mixture of size, power, and quickness. When his motor runs hot, there isn’t anybody that can block him.
The concern with Carter is production. For all the hype surrounding him, he only has six sacks and 18.5 tackles for a loss in his college career. Quinnen Williams, who he is often compared to, had eight sacks and 19.5 tackles for a loss in his final year alone at Alabama. If Carter is so good, where are the numbers to prove it? That is why many prefer Anderson since his 34.5 sacks back up the hype.
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Still, Wootton makes a fair point. If Carter can live up to his massive potential, he’d instantly change the landscape of the Bears’ defense. Ryan Poles will face a difficult decision presuming he has a choice between the two next April.
Best case scenario would be a trade back to #3 or 4. Get some solid extra picks and one of, or both, Anderson or Carter will still be there.
Take best player available. Literally no matter who or is or what position it is, he will be an upgrade.
ANY POSITION
The only thing that scares me about taking Anderson is that 235 lbs. If we were still running 3-4 he’s the perfect OLB. When you’re making him a 4-3 DE however, is another story from another planet.
This decision rests on what will work best for the Eberflus defense. Corey Wootten makes a good point. However, the Bears have a lot of holes to fill.
From a pure defensive front, W Anderson is the best gamble. Carter appears to be slightly less with a potential cause for concern in regard to health and safety issues in the NFL. But the way this draft is shaping up, the Bears end up with the first overall pick, which could be worth a King’s Ransom come March. Either way, #1 or #2 is going to fall to the Bears and R Poles will have a serious choice to make, take the guaranteed(?) player in Anderson or Carter(?) or trade down and reap the draft choices to use on… Read more »