Why Clemson’s Woods could be a draft fit for the Bears

We are taking a look at several potential prospects who could fit the Bears’ needs at No. 25 in the first round of the upcoming NFL draft. Here’s how Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods could work for the Bears.

Why is it a need

Chicago had clear needs on the defensive line heading into the offseason. Even with a few free agent signings, Poles should be looking to upgrade with his top draft picks, including the defensive tackle spot.

The Bears didn’t get consistent production from the middle of the defensive line for much of last season. The line allowed opponents to rush for an average of 134.5 yards per game, which was the sixth-most in the league. It also struggled to pressure the quarterback, finishing tied for 22nd with 35 sacks despite blitzing 25.8% of the snaps, which tied for the 11th-most.

Last year’s starting tackles Grady Jarrett and Gervon Dexter flashed at times. Dexter finished second on the Bears with a career-high six sacks and had 11 quarterback hits and six tackles for loss while playing every game. Jarrett dealt with injuries during his first season in Chicago but played in 14 games. He had 1.5 sacks, eight quarterback hits and one tackle for loss.

Those numbers aren’t terrible. But it’s clear the Bears need more from the middle of the line to create opportunities for the outside. With Dexter entering the last year of his rookie deal and Jarrett turning 33 later this month, Poles will be looking for young talent to add to the mix.

Why Woods would fit

Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen looks for versatile tackles who can disrupt from the middle of the line with their athleticism. Woods has the frame that could help him to make an impact.

Woods entered Clemson as one of the best high school prospects in the country. He shined at times during his college career but failed to put up elite numbers last season to be considered a top-10 pick in this year’s draft. During his junior season last fall, Woods had 30 tackles, 3.5 for a loss, along with two sacks. He earned Second Team AP all-American honors and was named First Team All-ACC.

The lack of production might not scare away the Bears, especially at No. 25. At 6-foot-2, 298 pounds and with a 31 1/4-inch wingspan, Woods is a powerful athlete who explodes off the line. He plays with quickness and has versatility, giving him the traits that could make him an impact player during his rookie season at different points of the line. Woods also proved he can stop the run, which the Bears need.

If the Bears believe in those traits more than the college numbers and think they can develop Woods to his potential, he could become a steal late in the first round.

Will Woods be on the board?

It’s hard to say. With 24 other picks before the Bears, a lot of different scenarios could play out before they pick.

It seems like a coin flip whether Woods will still be around at No. 25 if they don’t trade up. Woods has been a player that could be selected in the early 20s or even higher. But he’s also a prospect that’s dropped out of the first round for some analysts.