Hoge's Bears Big Board: No. 3 S Ha Ha Clinton-Dix
By Adam Hoge-
(CBS) — A look at the top 20 NFL Draft prospects that could be on the Bears' radar, based on projected availability, position of need and player skill:
S Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Alabama
Age: 21
Height: 6-1
Weight: 208
Hand: 9
Arm: 32 3/8
College Career: Left for the NFL a year early after two very good seasons as Alabama's starting free safety. Picked off seven passes his last two seasons, including five as a sophomore. Was suspended two games this past season for accepting money from an assistant coach.
Strengths: Good range and length to make plays on the ball. Drives down hard on crossing routes. Can come up to the line and play man. Willing tackler against the run, despite being more of a center fielder. Better hitter than given credit for. Has faced top competition in a pro-style defense at Alabama.
Weaknesses: Thin frame. Could get stronger. Guilty of loafing. Does not play as hard as some of the other safeties in this year's draft. Not as versatile between safety positions. College production was average.
Bears Outlook: Clinton-Dix has the highest ceiling of all the safeties in this year's class, but his game film can be frustrating at times because he doesn't always go all out. That will have to change at the next level, especially given his slightly thin build. But if he adds a little strength and buys in completely on Sundays, he could be an All-Pro. Clinton-Dix doesn't have the versatility to play both safety positions, but if Bears GM Phil Emery is looking for a rangy free safety who can make plays on the ball, this could be his guy.
Adam Hoge covers the Bears for CBSChicago.com and is a frequent contributor to 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter at @AdamHoge.
