The Chicago Bears can’t really hide their intention for the 2023 draft. Not entirely. Everybody with common sense knows GM Ryan Poles wants to bolster the trenches on both the offensive and defensive sides. That isn’t a shock since both lines were among the NFL’s worst in 2022. The lingering question is which players they target. As of right now, expectations are the Bears will go after right tackle help in free agency. They will focus on interior blockers in the draft if that proves true.
That would explain a new update from Ryan Fowler of The Draft Network. He revealed that the Bears had had an “extensive” meeting with TCU guard Steve Avila. Many evaluators consider him the best guard in the 2023 class. He was a vital component of the Horned Frogs’ excellent season, culminating in a national championship game appearance. He’s well-proportioned, strong, and much quicker than he gets credit for. His pass protection often stands out the most, which may explain the Bears’ interest.
The Chicago Bears are right to like Avila.
He is a player who should be able to start immediately and will be available on Day 2 of the draft. That means the Bears might be able to get him in the 2nd round. Even better is the fact he also has experience playing center. That means he has versatility. Linemen like that carry much greater value. He was also a team captain and noted for his strong work ethic. Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus tend to prioritize those two character traits. Everything lines up to explain why the Bears are interested.
It comes down to whether he falls to them. Avila is often projected to go in the top half of the 2nd round. That would be a problem. Right now, the Chicago Bears don’t pick until the 53rd selection after #1 overall. There is a good chance Avila will be long gone by then. This means one of two things. Either they must hope he falls or find a way to get higher in the 2nd round. The second option can be accomplished either by trading up from #53 or by acquiring a pick in that range. Trading down from #1 could achieve the latter.
Subscribe to the BFR Youtube channel and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
At least we know this will be a name to watch.
Ryan Poles comes from a system that focuses on having strong linemen on both sides of the ball. So, we can expect that’s going to be a major focus this year. Poles now knows who can perform at a high level and who needs to be replaced.
“Everybody with common sense knows GM Ryan Poles wants to bolster the trenches on both the offensive and defensive sides. That isn’t a shock since both lines were among the NFL’s worst in 2022.” — Erik Lambert.
And, everybody that can count knows that Ryan Poles added 21 candidates to the Bears (12 OL/ 9 DL) last year.
Braxton Jones was the only “hit” among the bunch. That alone doesn’t prove Ryan Poles is an incompetent judge of NFL talent and value — but it is another compelling illustration of that position.
This kid looks good and has a lot of nasty in him. I even saw 1 play where he completely neutralized Jalen Carter. However, I would still prefer John Michael Schmitz but he will likely be gone late in the 1st.
He looks good, even though I would rather see John Michael Schmitz in that position…
using point system by j, johnson .. trade #1= 3000 pnts to Colts / bears get #4 1800 #35 530 2024 1st rnd =1000 2nd rnd 200 … so bears give 3000 take 3550… now bears have a top 2nd plus there own 2nd… trade up for best WR or G/C on the board or stay put … at 4 get carter or anderson dependind on if bears can get DT Payne in FA