The early rounds of the upcoming NFL draft should provide the Chicago Bears with multiple opportunities to upgrade on defense, according to ESPN’s Todd McShay.

In a project released Wednesday on ESPN.com, McShay – playing the role of general manager – chose three defensive players with Chicago’s first three picks.

At No. 3 overall, McShay went with LSU safety Jamal Adams, who fits the Bears on a variety of levels. Another safety the Bears have interest in – Ohio State’s Malik Hooker – went sixth overall to the New York Jets in McShay’s latest offering. Hooker is a prototypical center fielder with great coverage skills, but he recently had two surgical procedures done (labrum and hernia).

In round two (No. 36), McShay took Alabama cornerback Marlon Humphrey, who started two years for the Crimson Tide. Now, the Bears did plenty of work at cornerback in free agency, but long term, the position is far from settled. Chicago committed to paying veterans Prince Amukamara ($7 million guaranteed) and Marcus Cooper ($6 million guaranteed) starter’s money in 2017, but Amukamara is playing on a one-year deal. Plus, Deiondre' Hall – chosen in the fourth-round last year – may move to safety, and 2014 top pick Kyle Fuller missed all of 2016 after a summer knee scope. Chicago has a plethora of cornerbacks under contract, but expect them to strongly consider adding another via the draft.

At No. 67, McShay felt Clemson defensive tackle Carlos Watkins was the best choice for the Bears. Watkins led the Tigers with 10.5 sacks and 13.5 tackles for loss last year. Chicago is in pretty good shape up front with Eddie Goldman and Akiem Hicks, but 2016 third rounder Jonathan Bullard didn’t contribute much as a rookie.