The Bears parted ways with running back Jordan Howard earlier this spring, shipping him off to Philadelphia after Howard struggled through the most trying season of his pro career. At the end of the day, Howard is still a solid back -- he's just not a great fit for the Bears' rushing offense.

The Bears have Haha Clinton-Dix here in the short term to hold up the starting safety spot opposite Eddie Jackson, but more long-term promise and versatility here is key. Enter Michigan State's Khari Willis.

So what makes Damien Harris any different? He's another big, bruiser of a back, right? Harris' feet are quicker. He's more fluid in tight spaces. There's more wiggle here. Ultimately, the Bears just can't afford to have a linear barge in the backfield. Harris will surprise you when you put him under the microscope, he's a little more nuanced than first look might suggest.

Chicago is one of the teams in close proximity to East Lansing, so they'll know Willis well. His versatility, tackling and skill to drop down into the nickel in some stretches brings added value -- whether it is as a rotational player and sub-package defender or as a long-term prospect to start.

ROUND 5, PICK NO. 162: TIM HARRIS, CB, VIRGINIA

If there was ever a steal waiting to happen, it is Tim Harris. Harris has been in college since forever ago but is only now jumping to the pros due to injuries. The thing about Tim Harris that you need to know is this: he's good.

When he's on the field, of course. Harris' medicals will have a lot of red tape but if you're able to keep Harris healthy, he's more than capable of playing as an outside cornerback at the pro level.

ROUND 7, PICK NO. 222: SHAREEF MILLER, EDGE, PENN STATE

The pass rush in Chicago is in great hands, thanks to one Khalil Mack. But beyond Mack, Chicago's best push comes from the inside. That's perfectly fine. And to be fair to Leonard Floyd, Floyd has been solid, even if he hasn't lived up to his billing as a top-10 pick.

But the Bears could use some more. Why not take a chance on Shareef Miller? He's got a good first step. He's definitely a developmental player, but an interesting one with a trait he can hang his hat on. That's more than you often get from picks this late in the game.

ROUND 7, PICK NO. 238: YOSUAH NIJMAN, OT, VIRGINIA TECH

Speaking of traits. Nijman is all traits. He's a superb athlete, but a hot mess from a fundamentals perspective. The Bears will need to try to stash Nijman and coach him up, but these are the kind of athletes you can swing on late in the draft.



