2023 Senior Bowl: Three defensive standouts Bears fans need to know about
The 2023 Reese's Senior Bowl has come to a close, which means the next big event on the NFL Draft schedule is the combine. For those who don't know what the Senior Bowl is, let me explain: It is an all-star game where some of the top players who have graduated in the country can […]
The 2023 Reese's Senior Bowl has come to a close, which means the next big event on the NFL Draft schedule is the combine.
For those who don't know what the Senior Bowl is, let me explain: It is an all-star game where some of the top players who have graduated in the country can come down to Mobile, Alabama, and practice against each other. The event is flooded with NFL teams and media alike as they all get live viewings of players they might not have seen during the regular season.
It is also a crucial spot for teams to begin doing mental checkups on players as they have a chance to sit down and interview prospects in closed-door one-on-one sessions. Each year there are some small school players who make a name for themselves, as well as someone who doesn't quite live up to the hype.
So who might the Bears have an eye on after a good week in mobile?
Let's take a look:
First up it's hard not to mention the defensive tackle out of Bowling Green, Karl Brooks. Brooks put on a fantastic showing down at mobile. He was constantly imposing his will and gaining penetration during the one-on-one drills against offensive linemen. He has put up impressive career numbers in his time at Bowling Green amassing 46 tackles for loss and 27.5 sacks.
Brooks showed ability in pass rushing and against the run. His performance won't easily be forgotten and can be picked at quite the discount compared to the Jalen Carter's of the draft.
Number two on my list isn't as prominent as a need for the Bears, however they could use some depth at the position; and that is exactly what he would provide. Cincinnati, linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. stood out in one prominent area during practices. That area would be pass coverage. Now linebackers are not as technically gifted in coverage as defensive backs so having them go up against running backs in one on one matchups poses quite the disadvantage.
Not for Pace Jr., as he absolutely shined.
Oh and he did exceptionally well in pass rush drills.
Now on the third level of the defense there was one name in Darius Rush who stood out more than all the others. He registered multiple interception days more than once in his time at Mobile. He looked like he could step in and be a No. 2 corner, right away. He had an impressive anticipation skills as well as fantastic technique on others.
Rush is quite fast, too. And we all know how much the NFL loves speed.
Featured image via Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
