Ryan Poles surprised several people during the 2022 draft. It marked the first time in decades that a Chicago Bears GM had taken four offensive linemen in the same draft. His reasoning behind it was simple. He wanted to add depth and competition to the unit that he felt wasn’t present last year. One person in favor of this approach is Tom Thayer. The former Bears guard has pushed for more investment in the line for years.
Through the first three training camp practices, he’s had a chance to see the rookies in action. Everybody is talking about left tackle Braxton Jones, but that wasn’t the name Thayer brought up when asked which names have caught his attention thus far. He listed 6th round center Doug Kramer and 7th round guard Ja’Tyre Carter as the guys. He explained on the Bears’ YouTube channel what helps them stand out.
Tom Thayer noticed Larry Borom before his rise too.
The guy knows what he is talking about regarding offensive linemen. So to single out Kramer and Carter this early is encouraging. Kramer has been forced to step into the starting lineup at center over the past few days after Lucas Patrick broke his thumb. He’s traded starter reps with Sam Mustipher. Carter has settled into the competition at right guard and seems to be holding his own pretty well in drills.
Really nice rep from Ja’Tyre Carter on Justin Jones pic.twitter.com/146PVAuPIk
— Chicago Football Connection (@CFCBears) July 29, 2022
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Of course, he can pass any proper judgment on either player until the pads go on. It is beyond difficult to evaluate linemen until they’re allowed to get physical in the trenches. Kramer is already demonstrating his potent mix of intelligence and athleticism. The big concern is whether he has enough power and balance to overcome his size concerns. As for Carter, scouts worried about his inconsistent pad level and lack of explosion.
Both will have a chance to prove otherwise next week. Pads go on Monday. Tom Thayer and others can’t wait to see what develops. If one or both prove legit, the Bears offensive line might be in business.
