2018 NFL Draft: Chicago Bears 7-round mock draft
By Joe Romano
Round 2 – Pick 39
James Washington, WR, Oklahoma State
This is the spot that makes more sense for the Chicago Bears to grab a wide receiver. They desperately need help at that spot. Former first round pick Kevin White simply can not stay on the field. Chiacgo signed Kendall Wright a year ago. He is a solid player but not a top two option for any team. Aside from Cameron Meredith, there is not a starting caliber receiver on this roster. The rest of the depth chart is filled with cast-offs or projects.
James Washington of Oklahoma State would give Trubisky the productive receiver that could take his game up a level. During his time in college, the Fred Biletnikoff winner was a multiple time All-American for the Cowboys. Measuring in at only 6-feet and 200 pounds, he looks like a running back. Once the tape is popped in, it’s easy to see the skill set that can make him succeed at the next level.
Before the week at the Senior Bowl, analysts pegged Washington as only a deep threat. That was his best skill at Oklahoma State. However he silenced the critics by putting on a display at every level. He was able to show strong route running and even stronger hands. If the ball is anywhere near Washington he is going to bring it in.
The Trubisky-Washington connection could be the Bears version of Jared Goff-Cooper Kupp in Los Angeles this year. The only difference is that Washington has a skill set that could make him a number one option in this league where Kupp seems maximized in his slot role. Chicago, if they do not grab Ridley, can have their pick of four or five extremely talented wide receivers at the top of round two.