The Chicago Bears might not know who is handling their amateur scouting in the wake of the firing of Jerry Angelo, as they approached the 2012 NFL Draft, but even the untrained eye can see the team needs help at wide receiver. If Jay Cutler is going to establish himself in the top tier of NFL quarterbacks, he needs a premium talent on the outside capable of fighting for jump balls and beating double teams. In the latest mock draft by WalterFootball.com, the Bears turn to Notre Dame product, Michael Floyd. Here is the pick and the analysis:
None of the Bears wide receivers totaled 40 receptions in 2011. Chicago has to get some passing weapons for Jay Cutler through the draft and free agency.
Floyd has first-round ability, but off-the-field problems make his draft stock harder to predict because it isn't clear how heavily he will be downgraded for that. The 6-foot-3, 224-pounder has good speed to go along with his size, body control and strong hands, plus he is a polished receiver as a route-runner. In many games this year, Floyd was an unstoppable force. For the season, he had 100 receptions for 1,147 yards and nine touchdowns.
For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth Bears coverage, visitWindy City Gridiron, and for more on the 2012 NFL draft, head over to Mocking The Draft. For more from around the NFL, check out SB Nation's NFL news hub.