Signs Point to Bears' 1st-Round Pick McClellin Playing Large Role Right Away

In May, teams don't like to promise anything to rookies. The word most commonly heard in connection with any draft pick—even first-rounders—is "earn." On the other hand, actions speak louder than words, and one action taken by the Chicago indicates that first-round pick Shea McClellin will play a large role on defense from day one.

Jeremy Stoltz from the Bear Report found himself confused by GM Phil Emery calling McClellin a "four-down player" because he only worked with the special teams units on one of the three days of the rookie minicamp. Stoltz reports that special teams coach Dave Toub said the team would work McClellin on special teams "until he's either a first or second guy" on defense. Well, it appears that it took one day of practice with rookies to make that decision.

Stoltz noted that McClellin's quick feet, explosiveness of the line, and overall speed of his game stood out amongst the rookies. Bears defensive line coach Rod Marinelli was impressed with McClellin's speed and quick redirection, according to Brad Biggs's special piece for the Idaho Statesman. Matt Bowen also saw McClellin's explosiveness, violent hand-fighting and finishing speed in drills during the rookie minicamp.

Dan Pompei from the Chicago Tribune believes the Bears liked McClellin enough for their 4-3 defense that they would have taken him over Melvin Ingram if the Chargers had passed on Ingram. He also says McClellin "had better be" the Bears rookie to make the biggest impact this year, backing up the idea that he'll figure heavily into the defensive end rotation from day one. Pompei added that McClellin was the "most ready to play right now" of the draft picks, and that he is "certain to get the most opportunity to play."

While some teams are trying to keep the carrot dangling in front of their first-round picks, the Bears seem to be preparing McClellin to be a core part of the defense immediately. Look for McClellin to force more punts than he covers this year.