4 CBs the Bears could target with each pick in the 2024 NFL Draft

Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles loves cornerbacks. Despite being well-stocked at the position, Poles and the Bears are hosting several cornerback prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft on in-person visits. That list includes Auburn’s Nehemiah Pritchett and Notre Dame’s Cam Hart. The Bears are going to draft a cornerback at some point. With Chicago’s specific draft capital in mind, we’ve identified four cornerback prospects, including an undrafted free-agent type, the Bears should target in the 2024 NFL Draft.

FIRST ROUND (NO. 9) | TERRION ARNOLD | ALABAMA

The Bears aren’t drafting a cornerback with the ninth selection, but Alabama’s Arnold could become an option if Poles trades back to acquire additional draft capital, given the Bears’ just four selections throughout seven rounds. Arnold is expected to be the first cornerback drafted. He’s among the best overall defensive prospects.

THIRD ROUND (NO. 75) | T.J. TAMPA | IOWA STATE

Tampa is a big-bodied cornerback who pairs outstanding length with excellent instincts. He participated in last week’s Big 12 Pro Day, where he reportedly ran the 40 in mid-4.5 seconds. Tampa isn’t afraid of contact, routinely coming downhill to assist in the run game as a willing tackler. Matt Eberflus would appreciate his play style.

From NFL scout at Big 12 pro day:

CB TJ Tampa 4.52/4.55 in 40-yard dash.

— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) March 28, 2024

FOURTH ROUND (NO. 122) | NEHEMIAH PRITCHETT | AUBURN

The Bears are hosting Pritchett on an aforementioned visit to Halas Hall. That signals legitimate interest in his services. Pritchett is an alignment-versatile corner with 4.36 long speed. Pritchett recorded 29 pass breakups and three interceptions as an SEC standout.

UDFA | TAVION MCCARTHY | MERCER

The small-school McCarthy recently leaped a 44-inch vertical at Pro Day. It’s the fifth-highest recorded vertical jump by a cornerback dating back to 1999. McCarthy’s rare athleticism puts him on the NFL draft map. Poles has always appreciated athletes at cornerback, so McCarthy is likely on his radar.

What a 44-inch vert looks like

Mercer DB Tavion McCarthy just became a more well-known prospect. pic.twitter.com/5M1b3BNz8e

— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) March 27, 2024