The Chicago Bears are on the hunt for offensive line help. Kyle Long retired. Both of their starting tackles took big steps back last season. It feels like an infusion of competition is needed to invigorate that position group. Thus they’ve been active since the season ended evaluating possible picks for the upcoming NFL draft. Apparently one name was of particular interest at the Oklahoma State pro day in guard Marcus Keyes.
One of the big problems for the Bears last year was running the ball. Their front just couldn’t get any traction on the ground and it made life that much harder from an overmatched quarterback. So it would make sense they like Keyes who established himself on one of the best running teams college football. O.K. State was 17th in yards per game at 229.6 in 2019.
According to Tony Pauline of Pro Football Network, he looked strong in drills and was being watched carefully by Bears representatives.
“Offensive lineman Marcus Keyes was another prospect who looked good in position drills, displaying violent hand punch and the ability to play with knee bend and leverage throughout the session.
Keyes measured 6-foot-4 and 315 pounds with an arm length of 33 5/8 inches.
The Carolina Panthers, Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears, Indianapolis Colts and Seattle Seahawks are all showing interest in Keyes.”
Marcus Keyes could be a Day 3 target in the draft
Keyes certainly has the size for the NFL. His power is on display in the clip above. He’s also shown good movement ability, able to reach the second level to pick off linebackers and spring his running backs loose. The building blocks are there for him to become a contributor in the pros. He just needs work on his fundamentals. Particularly in terms of pass protection. Odds are he will go somewhere on Day 3 of the draft. An area the Bears will have six picks.
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It wouldn’t be a surprise if he’s in competition for the open right guard spot during training camp this summer. Odds are he’s not the only mauling-type blocker the Bears have their eye on. Merely one of the first to become known.
