2024 NFL Mock Draft: Chicago Bears Draft Florida State Defensive Star
The Florida State Seminoles have seen a recent program turnaround. After Jimbo Fisher departed from the program, the Seminoles seemingly lost their elite status. Mike Norvell has been part of a resurgence in Tallahassee, pushing FSU back to the top of the sport as they project to be a College Football Playoff contender once again next season.
With Florida State returning to being one of the most competitive college football teams comes plenty of NFL talent. This year, the Seminoles were well-represented at the NFL Combine, as each of the participants shined in their position groups.
While the Seminoles will send plenty of talent to the NFL, which of those could become stars at the pro level? One easy prediction is Jared Verse. The 6-foot-4, 260-pound defensive end earned a top-ten selection in CBS Sports' recent 2024 NFL Mock Draft.
CBS Sports' Kyle Stackpole mocked Verse as the No. 9 pick, landing him in Chicago with the Bears.
"This pick was initially Rome Odunze. Then the Bears traded for Keenan Allen. I don't think the Allen trade prohibits Chicago from still going WR here, especially if they view Odunze as a blue-chip player, but in this mock draft, the front office pairs Montez Sweat with one of the best pass rushers in this class in Jared Verse," Stackpole wrote.
This could be a huge selection for the Bears. They traded Justin Fields, clearing a path for college football star Caleb Williams to lead the way at quarterback. As Stackpole mentioned, they landed a talented wide receiver in Keenan Allen. The franchise is going to have a fresh look in the upcoming NFL season.
Adding Verse could be massive. He's going to be an obvious disruptor as a pass rusher, but more importantly, his infectious energy and locker-room presence could be a huge asset for a franchise looking to establish a culture.
In two seasons in Tallahassee, Verse tallied 18 sacks and 29.5 tackles for loss while leading a stout Florida State defense. He projects to have more than enough NFL potential, but scoring a top-ten selection would be a proud moment for Seminole fans.
Stick with NoleGameday for more coverage of Florida State football throughout the offseason.
