The Chicago Bears may only have four picks in the upcoming draft, but that could easily change. GM Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus need to make sure they’re informed on every prospect possible, especially at positions of need. One of them is the defensive line. While adding Montez Sweat was a huge win for the team, they still have question marks at both the second edge rush spot and the three-technique interior pass rusher. Both Yannick Ingakoue and Justin Jones left as free agents. Replacing them must be a priority.
It appears the Bears understand this and are operating with a sense of urgency. One notable player seems to be in their sights. Tony Pauline of Sportskeedia reported that no fewer than six team representatives were present at the Miami Hurricanes pro day. While it is where two of the draft’s top safeties reside, it is also home to one of its top interior pass rushers. That is Leonard Taylor, who has similar dimensions and capability to former 3rd round pick Zacch Pickens. It isn’t hard to understand their apparent interest.
The Chicago Bears must figure out who Taylor is.
He was terrific in 2022, notching three sacks and 10.5 tackles for a loss in 12 games for the Hurricanes. However, he regressed last year with only one sack and 3.5 tackles for a loss. Did he lose his interior drive or was it something else? It’s worth noting Taylor had to play for two different head coaches and three different defensive coordinators in his time with Miami. Developing can be difficult in those circumstances. When he had the chance to work with Charlie Strong in 2022, a proven defensive mind with a strong track record on the defensive front, he thrived.
The Chicago Bears might actually be perfect for him. He’d get to work with Eric Washington, one of the best defensive line experts in the NFL. The new defensive coordinator has a stellar track record developing young defensive tackles. He proved it with Henry Melton during his first stint in Chicago, Kawann Short in Carolina, and Ed Oliver in Buffalo. If anybody can get the most out of Taylor’s potential, it’s him. He’s 6’3, 300 lbs, has 34-inch arms, and showcases more than enough quickness and power for the NFL level.
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Whether the Bears can get him outside the first two rounds will be the question.
