Chicago Bears number one draft pick DE Shea McClellin rearing to prove critics wrong - NFL News
The Chicago Bears picked Boise State University’s defensive end, Shea McClellin in the first round with the 19th overall pick and now the youngster wants to prove all his detractors wrong.
McClellin had faced criticism from draft analysts who said that the defensive end never faced tough competition during his college career.
However, the youngster speaking at his introductory press conference at the Bears Halas Hall facility said that he is ready to prove himself at the Bears.
“To all the doubters, I’m going to have to go out there and prove myself. I’m used to that. I came from Boise State. We had to prove ourselves every week, so I’m used to that and that’s what I’m going to have to do every day.”
McClellin on Thursday became new Bears general manager, Phil Emery’s first pick in the drafts and said that he was extremely excited at the prospect of playing for Chicago.
“I was very excited, that was my first response. I still have a little adrenaline left in me from last night. My heart was beating fast. I thought this would be a great opportunity for me, this organization and the city to play in and I’m really excited.”
Both Emery and Bears coach, Lovie Smith were happy with the arrival of the young talent and praised his abilities after the draft.
The youngster also talked about the feeling of getting to play with Bears legends such as linebacker Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs and said that he cannot wait to get on the training field with such big names.
The Bears ended the 2011-12 season with a poor 8-8 record after their offence was rendered toothless with injuries to quarterback, Jay Cutler and running back, Matt Forte.
Chicago were well on their way to the playoffs early in the season but the injuries hit the team hard and the franchise never recovered.
Last season was a big disappointment for the franchise and previous general manager, Jerry Angelo was fired in the offseason after taking much of the blame for the poor performances of the backups he had drafted.
This year things are looking different for the franchise and they will be favourites to make a big push for the playoffs.
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