Chicago Bears mock draft after Smith, Quinn, and Claypool trades
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. RB. Pittsburgh. Israel Abanikanda. 5. player. 866
Chicago Bears mock draft round 5: Israel Abanikanda, RB, Pittsburgh
For all the faults the Chicago Bears have had in their history, except for Curtis Enis, the running back position in Chicago has consistently been a threat to opposing defenses, even if it lasts for a season, multiple seasons, or even just a few games. The running back in Chicago is always a threat. So, you can count on this organization to find a suitable ball carrier, and they get one right here in Pittsburgh’s Israel Abanikanda.
Notable for his breakout against Virginia Tech, the Panther running back has the traits and elusiveness needed in the new offense that the Bears are running and can serve as a quality player alongside Khalil Herbert and if he were to be retained, David Montgomery. Trestan Ebner will likely be used on special teams if Izzy comes to town, but Izzy brings more than just his physical gifts.
The ability to take one cut and go while also using his speed to help create distance between him and tacklers is a critical trait that Abanikanda brings to the table. He will have to work on his blocking and pass-catching traits, but in terms of using his body as leverage when running, the Bears should be pleased to find this kind of player late in the draft and use him in various ways.
Pick Analysis. DE. 5. Scouting Report. Penn State. Adisa Isaac. player. 806
Chicago Bears mock draft round 5 via TRADE (BAL): Adisa Isaac, DE, Penn State
Last year, Chicago took Miami (OH) pass-rusher Dominique Robinson, in the 5th round due to his high athletic upside and speed when coming off the edge. Both traits play very well in the modern NFL. However, in this day and age, you can’t have enough pass rushers. As such, the Bears use the pick they got from Baltimore to gamble once again on the athletic upside.
Penn State defensive end Adisa Isaac isn’t one to jump off the screen or go crazy with wild plays, but he is a unique prospect and one that Chicago can afford to take a flier on. For one, when he gets off the line, he can be explosive, and he has quick hands, which bode well against strong blockers. Additionally, he has enough length to drop back in coverage if necessary and can also get after the run.
The issues stem from consistently attacking the run and the fact that he is still very raw for a pass-rusher. This season, he only has one sack this year and four over his time in college. So, the production is a cause for concern, but that can also be attributed to a lack of playing time. Still, it doesn’t hurt to take a flier here, knowing that if you miss, it’s not the end of the world, but if this hits, you might uncover something useful down the line.