The Chicago Bears had six selections in the 2015 draft. Here’s a closer look at how their picks have contributed:
2015 draft class:
Starters: Eddie Goldman (6 starts), Hroniss Grasu (2), Adrian Amos (9). Three undrafted free agents have cracked the Bears’ starting lineup: Jonathan Anderson (three), Harold Jones-Quartey (two) and Khari Lee (three). Another undrafted rookie, Bryce Callahan, has taken over nickelback responsibilities in recent weeks.
On the cusp: Jeremy Langford is the tailback of the future. He's a dual-threat back who is expected to one day supplant Matt Forte in the starting lineup. Langford led the Bears coming off the bench with 142 all-purpose yards against San Diego in Week 9, including a sensational 31-yard reception on a deep ball. He followed that up with 182 total yards and two touchdowns in his first career start versus St. Louis. Langford is the real deal. He is expected to be a focal point on offense for years to come.
Undrafted free agents they like: Anderson is intriguing at linebacker. Afforded the opportunity to play when Shea McClellin missed three games with a knee injury, Anderson made an immediate impact with an interception against the Lions on Oct. 18. He then registered a team-high 12 tackles (after coaches' review) in the win over the Chargers. With the linebacker position very much in flux (McClellin’s contract expires following the season), the Bears may have a keeper in Anderson.
My take on the class: It’s hard to be overly excited about a draft class when the top choice (Kevin White) hasn’t played a single snap yet; he's on the physically unable to perform list. White’s rookie season is a disappointment, no matter how the Bears try to spin it. However, Goldman, Langford and Amos are serious contributors. Amos, in particular, has been excellent in the secondary; he looks like a steal having come in the fifth round. The jury is still out on Grasu, who has missed several weeks with a neck injury. Offensive tackle Tayo Fabuluje is suspended four games for violating the NFL’s policy on banned substances. Overall grade: B
Mel Kiper’s take on the class: Amos was a favorite of mine going into the draft, but even I didn't expect this level of play. He is one of the steals so far. Goldman has also taken on a sizable role in the DT rotation, and don't forget: He won't be 22 until the season ends. He's a big puppy. Langford is thriving with Matt Forte out. He can handle it. The big question is can Grasu do better against powerful run-stoppers? He has looked in over his head at times. Is Langford the future No. 1 RB? He sure looks like it.
