NFL Mock Draft 2016: Pre-Scouting Combine edition

DE/OLB. Eastern Kentucky. Noah Spence. 11. player. 57. <p>Chicago’s biggest need is at the position of outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. To simplify matters for the uninitiated, the Bears <em>really</em> desire a player that can get to the quarterback off the edge, and Noah Spence can certainly do that.</p> <p>Spence is becoming more of a household name as the draft process moves along, and the former Ohio State standout absolutely dominated the competition both at the FCS level in 2015 and during the action at the Senior Bowl. It would have seemed crazy to project Spence as a top-half of the first round player a few months ago, but the hype is very real and no one doubts his physical abilities on the football field.</p> <p>It is entirely conceivable that the Bears could shy away from a player like Noah Spence due to his off-field question marks, and Chicago does have other needs, including a glaring one at linebacker. Still, Chicago could hit a home run if Spence passes the off-field test, and the fit is undeniable with what the Bears want to do defensively. In addition, there just isn’t another player available with his natural gifts as a 3-4 outside linebacker here. It makes too much sense.</p>