GM Ryan Poles promised when asked a couple of weeks ago that he would do his homework on Jalen Carter. He was good to his word. The Chicago Bears haven’t cut corners in their effort to learn about the star Georgia defensive tackle. They attended his pro day and hosted him for a private visit as well. Reports are they’ve spoken to teammates, coaches, and family members about him too. They’re gathering every shred of information possible so they can make the right decision on what to do if Carter is sitting there at #9 overall.
Yet this approach doesn’t seem to have many people convinced the Bears would pull the trigger. While there is no doubt Carter’s freakish ability is a perfect fit for their defensive scheme, his off-the-field issues have many calling him a massive risk. It doesn’t feel like the right call for a rebuilding team to take such a plunge. However, that isn’t the case from what Bill Zimmerman hears. The Bears insider for Windy City Gridiron has solid connections around the organization. Based on what he’s hearing, this GM feels prepared to take that swing if given a chance.
Not only that, Carter is the only one Poles would consider taking at #9. If the defensive tackle goes before that spot, the Bears will look to trade down.
Jalen Carter is the epitome of a boom-or-bust prospect.
His tape is littered with moments of sheer domination. The guy wrecked offensive game plans for two years, helping Georgia win back-to-back championships. At the same time, his production never stood out, there were rumblings of concern about his shoddy work ethic, and then he pleaded no contest to misdemeanors for street racing that resulted in two deaths. People can’t get a grasp on him. He has the talent to be a potential Hall of Fame player. That isn’t an exaggeration. He flashed that kind of potential. The problem is nobody knows if he’s willing to embrace the work and mature.
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If Poles is ready to accept that risk, it means he likes what he’s heard from interviews. He also believes in head coach Matt Eberflus and his ability to help a young player grow into a professional. Besides, Poles has good reasons to think he can survive even if the pick doesn’t work out. Remember, he traded down from #1 overall to #9. That secured him a proven receiver and three extra draft picks, including a future 1st. If any of those picks end up becoming good players, people won’t be as mad if Jalen Carter flops.
On the other hand, if Carter hits and one of those picks does as well? Poles will be revered as genius.
