Many Chicago Bears fans are warming up to the idea of drafting Ashton Jeanty. Selecting a running back in the 1st round feels outdated nowadays. Players at that spot rarely maintain production into their 30s. That, along with the ability to find quality backs later, makes spending such a high pick seem unwise. Still, exceptions exist. Many believe if the player is special enough, the value of his position shouldn’t be a factor. At times, drafting elite talent must take priority above all.

Jeanty just completed one of the greatest rushing seasons ever, barely falling short of Barry Sanders’ historic single-season mark. He is widely considered the top running back in a stacked class and viewed in the same tier as Saquon Barkley was. The idea of him landing in Chicago to run in Ben Johnson’s offense feels like a seamless fit. Unfortunately, recent remarks by Raiders GM John Spytek suggest that chance may be gone.

Ashton Jeanty to the Raiders has become an open secret. They’ve been pegged as his likely destination for nearly two months. It’s easy to understand why. Las Vegas hasn’t yet replaced Josh Jacobs, who signed with Green Bay in free agency. New head coach Pete Carroll is a long-time believer in the ground game, as seen with Reggie Bush at USC and Marshawn Lynch in Seattle. Putting Jeanty behind Geno Smith likely excites him.

Nothing is guaranteed. The draft is full of surprises. Still, the steady buzz and Spytek’s latest words indicate many think Jeanty will end up in silver and black. Should that happen, the Bears face some tough calls when they pick at #10. It could be why left tackle is drawing increased attention among team insiders.