Chicago Bears 2017 NFL Mock Draft: Mid-April Update

Dec 24, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Matt Barkley (12) and wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (17) come off the field during the game against the Washington Redskins at Soldier Field. The Redskins defeat the Bears 41-21. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 24, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Matt Barkley (12) and wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (17) come off the field during the game against the Washington Redskins at Soldier Field. The Redskins defeat the Bears 41-21. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 28, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes defensive back Marcus Williams (20) carries the ball in front of Colorado Buffaloes defensive back Ahkello Witherspoon (23) during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Utes defensive back Marcus Williams (20) carries the ball in front of Colorado Buffaloes defensive back Ahkello Witherspoon (23) during the first half at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /

3rd Round (No. 67)- Marcus Williams, S, Utah

The cornerback position isn’t the only area in Chicago’s secondary that needs a talent upgrade. Chicago has seen recent draft picks at the safety position fail to develop. This led to the signing of veteran Quintin Demps to fill one of the holes.

More from With the First Pick

It’s possible that the Bears might be willing to give youngsters like Deon Bush, Adrian Amos and DeAndre Houston-Carson another chance. However, nobody in that group showed they are ready to seize the long-term job.

Marcus Williams is someone who could step in and make an immediate contribution. He features good size and quickness for the position. However, it’s his ball skills that really standout and make him a coveted prospect.

Williams has excellent hands and the ability to read developing routes. He doesn’t hesitate to break on the football and get his hands on the ball. The Bears really struggled in the turnover department last year and should be looking to add players like Williams to the mix.

Chicago will be on the lookout for some offensive line depth—especially at the tackle position. This year’s draft doesn’t have a lot of offensive tackle talent but does have a few developmental types. The 3rd round would be a great spot to take a chance on one of those prospects.