The Chicago Bears and new general manager Phil Emery turned more than a few heads by selecting Boise St. Broncos prospect Shea McClellin with the No. 19 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, but Emery is excited about McClellin's natural athleticism and plans to start him off as a left defensive end opposite Julius Peppers, according to the team website. The Bears' GM told Larry Mayer of ChicagoBears.com that the 6-foot-3, 260-pound edge rusher plays with a low pad level and has a "very natural ability to find the right path to the ball off blocks to make the tackle as quick as possible."
Interestingly, Emery also emphasized that McClellin is considered an all-downs football player and will contribute on special teams as well. He earned a "blue grade level" on special teams in the team's scouting process, which is the highest grade the team gives out to prospects. Still, the No. 19 pick will have to make a big impact on defense in order to justify the selection and turn Chicago's pass rush into a serious weapon in 2012-13.
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