Bears Eyeing Andrew Grad, Western Michigan Running Back

CHICAGO, IL — An Andrew High School graduate might be part of the Chicago Bears' NFL draft plans. Western Mighigan University running back Jarvion Franklin and Bears officials have been talking, and Franklin is expected to participate in the team's pre-draft local pro day at Halas Hall, according to Windy City Gridiron.

Draft experts are projecting Franklin to be either a low-round pick or an undrafted free agent. A standout performance during the April 13 pro day could help Franklin eventually secure a spot on the Bears' 90-man offseason roster, Windy City Gridiron reports.

According to his scouting report on NFL.com, Franklin has a "[p]rototypical 'big back' build," and the Western Michigan staff has praised him for his leadership traits. He's described as having a "[h]ulking size with broad shoulders and thickly muscled legs," but that comes with a downside: Scouts consider Franklin "[h]eavy-legged and lumbering."

At Andrew, Franklin had 179 carries for 1,265 yards and 15 touchdowns in his senior year. He also was named to the all-state second team selection that year.

During his time at Western Michigan, Franklin became the school's all-time leading rusher. He also set team marks in touchdowns and rushing touchdowns.

WATCH: Highlights of running back Jarvion Franklin's time at Western Michigan University:

Franklin isn't the only south suburban prospect on the Bears' radar before the upcoming NFL draft, April 26-28. Chicago scouts also have invited Azusa Pacific offenssive lineman Joe Kupcikevicius, who's from Oak Lawn and graduated from Richards High School, according to Christian Shanafelt of the NFL Draft Bible.

More via Windy City Gridiron

Jarvion Franklin rus during the 2017 Cotton Bowl between Western Michigan University and the University of Wisconsin. (Game photo by Ronald Martinez | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images; portrait via Western Michigan University)