The Chicago Bears scouts are always hard at work as they look to help bolster the roster next spring. And one of the weekend's biggest games is a top-10 showdown between Georgia and Alabama that features some big names.
These two SEC teams have each won National Championships in recent years, and they each have the pedigree to be in the mix again. The Bears have not been afraid to target players from either school, but they are at a point where Ben Johnson, Ryan Poles, and every executive involved can point toward team needs at most points in the draft.
Obviously, elite players are the priority early, but they are filling out what they hope will eventually be a consistent contender. For them to stay atop the NFC North, the draft is where they can
continue replenishing. These four players are worth taking an extra close look at when the Bulldogs meet the Crimson Tide:
Zabien Brown, CB, Alabama
Although it hasn’t been as much of a problem as it initially seemed, the Bears are going to be in the market for defensive secondary help during the offseason. Zabien Brown is someone to consider if he’s available when the Bears come up to pick at any point on Day 2 of the draft. Jaylon Johnson hasn’t been as good as the Bears are used to so far this season, and there are many other question marks to worry about at corner as Tyrique Stevenson hits free agency. Drafting a young foundational piece at that position is an option.
Chris Cole, LB, Georgia
Dennis Allen’s defense doesn’t rely on super elite linebacker play as much as Matt Eberflus’s did, but that doesn’t mean it’s an irrelevant position either. With Chris Cole’s late first-round talent, the Bears can make a major improvement to their defense with a selection like that. Alabama is going to have a strong rushing and passing attack, so it will be interesting to see just how effective Cole is against a top team like that. Like everyone involved in this game, it’s a great match for everyone to be scouted due to the nature of the matchup.
Nate Frazier, RB, Georgia
Running back isn't a glaring need given Chicago's 1-2 punch at running back with D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai. But Ben Johnson hasn't shied away from adding more offensive playmakers to the roster. If the Bears want to add another running back to the room, Georgia’s Nate Frazier is someone to consider late Day 2 or early Day 3. Monangai was late on Day 3, so you never know what kind of backs can be found throughout the draft.
Bray Hubbard, S, Alabama
The Bears could also look to add to their safety room with Alabama's Bray Hubbard, who has a real challenge ahead of him against this Georgia offense. But safety isn't a pressing need with Coby Bryant set to return and standout rookie Dillon Thieneman having an impressive season.
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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: 4 draft prospects to watch in Georgia vs Alabama
