The Chicago Bears revamped their entire offensive line before even reaching the draft. Joe Thuney, Drew Dalman, and Jonah Jackson significantly upgraded their interior spots. Now, GM Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson don’t have to feel pressured to take the best lineman available with the 10th overall pick next month. However, many argue the Bears should still do it anyway. In their minds, one vital position remains unresolved: left tackle. Braxton Jones is recovering from a broken leg and has one year left on his rookie deal. This might be the best chance the Bears have to find a long-term replacement.
Former scouting director Greg Gabriel isn’t so sure about that. He told Bears Barroom that the left tackle options in this draft aren’t ideal. Will Campbell of LSU has the shortest arms and shortest wingspan of any in this class. Armand Membou is a great athlete but has never played left tackle in his career. Gabriel believes the Bears have a far simpler plan in mind. They will let Jones battle former 3rd round pick Kiran Amegadjie in training camp for the job. If neither makes the necessary impression this coming season, the Bears will go hunting for their solution in next year’s draft.
The Chicago Bears must operate according to their board.
Campbell, Membou, Kelvin Banks, and Josh Simmons are all talented blockers. The problem is, are they talented enough to justify taking #10 overall vs. other players likely to be available? Unfortunately, the answer is no. Head coach Ben Johnson was highly complimentary of Jones when asked about him, and GM Ryan Poles reiterated multiple times that the team had significant expectations for Amegadjie. It makes sense that they would use this season to give him an opportunity.
Both young men have plenty of motivation. Amegadjie is fighting for playing time. Jones is fighting for his next contract. That should ensure they show up to training camp in shape and ready to work. The Chicago Bears may draft more tackle help next month, but other positions are likely to get immediate attention.
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