News: Bears defensive end Shea McClellin told the media at minicamp Wednesday he has put on "five to seven" pounds in hopes of landing a larger role on defense.
Analysis: McClellin figures to be a big part of the pass rush unit this season but could also work as a linebacker in certain situations (general manager Phil Emery said as much). With potential for some padded stats thanks to whatever linebacker duties he pulls in, we like the idea of aiming for McClellin as a reserve Fantasy DL with a late-round pick.
News: Bears general manager Phil Emery declared second-year player Shea McClellin a defensive lineman. "We are excited about him as a pass rusher," Emery said, adding McClellin could play as a linebacker in certain situations but is a defensive end and won't change the position.
Analysis: This certainly enhances McClellin's Fantasy value: As a defensive line with some potential linebacker work, he could put up some more stats. We'd speculate on him with a late-round pick.
News: Chicago linebacker Shea McClellin notched four tackles and 1.5 sacks -- the first of his career -- during the Bears' 23-10 loss to Green Bay in Week 2. McClellin, who is slotted as a defensive end, took part in five total sacks Chicago managed on quarterback Aaron Rodgers during the game.
Analysis: McClellin overcame a sluggish debut against Indianapolis and displayed the type of production that made him a first-round selection in last April's NFL draft. The fleet-footed 23-year-old was able to create a formidable combo with Julius Peppers on the outside as the two were the only players with multiple sacks for the Bears. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the rookie as he could be worth an addition in IDP formats.
News:Shea McClellin grew up chasing chickens on a farm in Idaho. Now, he'll get paid to track down the likes of Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford. The Chicago Bears selected the defensive end from Boise State with the 19th pick in the draft. McClellin led Boise State with seven sacks last season and ranked sixth in school history with 20 1/2 in his career. He figures to play on the left side, opposite Julius Peppers. "This is a very natural football player," Emery said. "He plays with a very low pad level. He finds the ball quickly. ... He has a very natural ability to find the right path to the ball off blocks and make tackles. He's a small-town guy and a great character fit for us."
Analysis: McClellin also has the potential to stand up and play as a linebacker in rushing situations -- his versatility could go a long way for the Bears. For now, it's safest to consider him a defensive lineman with the potential for modest tackle totals and sacks at the start of his career. Long term, he could be a beast. He's worth a late pick in seasonal drafts and a mid-to-late pick in dynasty/keeper leagues. He's worth a solid mid-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
