The Chicago Bears have enacted a new philosophy under GM Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus. They’ve greatly emphasized acquiring young players with high athletic ceilings, regardless of experience level. It is hoped that with consistent, patient coaching, many of them will become quality football players, even if it may take a year or two. The term often used for this is “project.” One name that fits this exact label from 2022 was Kellen Diesch, a big left tackle they lured away from the Miami Dolphins.
Diesch stood out during the pre-draft process, looking good at the Senior Bowl and shining at the scouting combine. His 4.89 in the 40-yard dash at 6’7, 300 lbs was a highlight. His pass-blocking was impressive. The problem was his strength. Evaluators felt he was too light and lacked the necessary power for the NFL. He would need to fix both before he could push for a roster spot. It appears the 25-year-old has made considerable progress. He has stood out as one of the best tackles of the 2023 preseason.
The Chicago Bears have to love Diesch’s progress.
His athleticism remains on display. The pass protection is what stands out. He’s allowed only one QB pressure in 24 snaps. Pro Football Focus also has him a respectable 14th in run-blocking grade. Under normal circumstances, the second-year player might be in line to swipe the swing tackle spot behind Darnell Wright and Braxton Jones. There is one big obstacle in his way. That is Larry Borom. The former 5th round pick is the 4th-highest-rated tackle of the preseason, allowing only one quarterback pressure in 41 snaps.
Even his run-blocking has improved, earning a 97.6 grade on 31 snaps. Lesser competition or not, Borom is playing some of his best football lately. That swing tackle job belongs to him at this point. Hence why nobody is talking about Diesch. Still, this is a sign the Chicago Bears may have better depth at offensive tackle than some have thought. While Diesch may end up back on the practice squad, he’s done enough to get onto the main roster should an injury occur in the future. That is encouraging progress.
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