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Chicago’s defense was one of the worst in the league in 2014, at one point allowing 100-plus points over a two-game stretch. That’s why defense needs to be the Bears’ top priority here in the first round.

1. Shane Ray, DE/OLB, Missouri

With defensive ends Willie Young and Lamarr Houston both recovering from serious injuries, the Bears will need pass-rushing help. Ray fills that void.

He is one of the more versatile players in the 2015 draft class and can play defensive end or outside linebacker depending on which defensive scheme the Bears settle on.

Ray sacked the quarterback 14.5 times and recorded 22.5 tackles for loss in 2014; both figures were tops in the SEC. He possesses one of the quickest first steps among defensive linemen in the draft.

The Bears badly need to get younger on defense. There’s no better time to start than now.

2. Randy Gregory, DE, Nebraska

Gregory is one of the more explosive defensive end prospects on the board. The Nebraska product stands at 6’5”, 242 pounds and features great hands and quick and coordinated feet.

Rushing the edge opposite Jared Allen, on paper, looks like a winning proposition for this Bears team.

3. Alvin “Bud” Dupree, DE/OLB, Kentucky

Dupree would be a great selection here for the Bears. He’s a long, athletic lineman who had very little trouble rushing the passer during his career at Kentucky. The kid who goes by “Bud” finished 2014 with 7.5 sacks and 74 total tackles.

Dupree, on tape, looks like a great fit here for the Bears. He features a few different moves off the line of scrimmage, which makes it difficult for offensive linemen to get comfortable in their stance.

Possibly the best part of Dupree’s game is his ability to play all four downs. He can defend the run, rush the passer or drop back into coverage when needed. Those attributes are what the Bears had hoped to see from Shea McClellin.

4. Landon Collins, SS, Alabama

Collins looks to have the ability to play either safety position in the NFL. He’s hands down the best safety on the board.

The Crimson Tide product is one of the best run-stoppers on the board. His ball skills have improved from year to year, and his ability to lay someone out over the middle is fearsome for opposing wide receivers and tight ends.

Last season, the Bears passed in the first round on another Alabama safety, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix. If none of the three aforementioned linemen are available when No. 7 rolls around, the Bears should not pass on Collins.

5. Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State

While this might not be the most popular selection, the Bears will need a new starting quarterback if general manager Ryan Pace decides to get rid of Jay Cutler.

Winston is the most NFL-ready quarterback in this year's draft class. He can call plays at the line of scrimmage, take snaps under center or out of the shotgun and he has above-average arm strength.