As the draft continues to approach, it feels like the Chicago Bears’ list of names for the 10th overall has narrowed. Or at least it has to the public eye. We already know about running back Ashton Jeanty. Most feel his floor is Chicago at #10. Then there’s Penn State tight end Tyler Warren, who has a lot of fans inside Halas Hall, including defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. Then there is Will Campbell, the LSU left tackle. Much has been made of his shorter-than-ideal arms (33 inches), but he was still one of the best blockers in the country against the SEC.
Given the length concerns, the uncertainty is whether GM Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson would be leery of taking him that high. Adam Hoge of CHGO provided a telling update after hearing the buzz around the NFL Owners Meetings earlier this week.
“Poles was very candid on Hoge & Jahns about potentially adding another left tackle to the mix, and with Braxton Jones likely to be limited into training camp, it would be surprising if Kiran Amegadjie doesn’t have any other legitimate competition during the offseason program. Will Campbell, come on down? The arm-length debate will continue to rage, but my instincts tell me the Bears will seriously consider the LSU left tackle at No. 10 if he’s still available.”
This falls in line with what other local insiders have said. They believe the Bears are seeking solutions at left tackle. Braxton Jones is recovering from a broken ankle and has one year left on his contract. Kiran Amegadjie is a talented but raw project. Campbell represents an opportunity to lock that position down long-term.
Will Campbell represents a smart gamble for the Bears.
Yes, the length issues are understandable. However, that doesn’t change his tape. Johnson stated that he only worries about length and other things if it shows up a lot on a player’s game film. By most accounts, Will Campbell never seemed to struggle too often. His size, athleticism, and intelligence allowed him to handle blocking duties with regular efficiency. Besides, if it did ever become a chronic issue in the NFL, the Bears would have the option of moving him inside to guard. Remember, Joe Thuney turns 33 this year. There is no telling how much longer he plays. Campbell could be a perfect insurance policy.
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What remains uncertain is whether he’ll be available at #10. Both the New England Patriots (#4) and New York Jets (#7) need offensive line help. Both could be landing spots. If he does get to the Bears, it sounds like they’re not afraid to take him.
