2016 NFL Mock Draft Version 1.1: Shaking Up the First Round

57. <p>Without quarterbacks going early, the Bears are left with a depleted pool at their biggest areas of need.  In this situation, the Bears need to take the most talented player available, and the player who ranks highest at this point is Notre Dame linebacker Jaylon Smith.</p> <p>Similar to running back Todd Gurley, Smith is coming off of a knee injury which could easily cause him to miss the first three weeks of his pro career.  However, Gurley showed a player with exceptional talent doesn’t need a full year to show a team they made the right decision taking a risk on an injured star.</p> <p>While outside linebacker is not a position of desperation for the Bears, adding Smith to the roster allows them to move one their outside guys to the inside mix, or even draft an inside linebacker later who might compete for a starting job.</p> <p>Jaylon will be a talent in the NFL when he heals, and playing a season with a team who isn’t necessarily banking on his consistent presence in year one could be just the answer for both parties.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Previously:  Myles Jack – LB – UCLA</strong></p>. LB. Notre Dame. Jaylon Smith. 11. player