Ryan Poles knew he couldn’t exit the 2022 draft without providing more help to the Chicago Bears’ offensive line. Justin Fields was sacked 36 times in 12 games last season. So it wasn’t shocking that two of their first three picks on Day 3 of the draft ended up being linemen. It started with big left tackle Braxton Jones out of Southern Utah. Then a bit later in the 6th round, the Bears struck again with versatile Zachary Thomas.
Chicago’s offense places a heavy demand on mobility from the offensive linemen. Guys must be athletic and able to function in space. That won’t be a problem for Thomas. He is quick, agile, and can run for his size. He’s a determined run blocker, which is another key aspect that fits this offense. Experts feel his biggest drawback is pass protection. It needs work. With some technique adjustment, Thomas has a legitimate chance to become a starter.
The #Bears have selected OL Zachary Thomas No. 186 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft.
— Zack Pearson (@Zack_Pearson) April 30, 2022
The #Bears got one of my guys in this class on day 3 with Zach Thomas. Good run-blocker with the physical traits to develop. https://t.co/Ivqsca0TTJ
— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) April 30, 2022
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New #Bears offensive lineman Zachary Thomas
— Monsters Of The Midwest (@MonstersOfMw) April 30, 2022
As always – I love this San Diego State run game!
Watching LT Zachary Thomas (brother of DE Cameron) – 3yr starter at LT/RT. ‘Quick off ball, tight hands & sticky block sustaining’ combo will excite some zone scheme teams – heading to @ShrineBowl @AztecFB pic.twitter.com/MkWoKEK6Hh
— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) January 24, 2022
Remember that Poles is a former offensive lineman.
So is assistant GM Ian Cunningham. It is likely they felt comfortable waiting to address that area of the roster until later because they knew they could find value. Thomas wasn’t a fit for every offense in the NFL, but he’s ideal for the Bears. His ability to move in space, win with quickness, and play with leverage is exactly what they’re looking for. He also has a nice finisher streak in him that surfaces from time to time.
The Chicago Bears can’t be sure how many of their late picks will work out. That is likely why Poles moved to acquire so many of them. It increases the odds of him landing maybe or one or two legitimate talents that become strong starters. Thomas has the capability to be one of them. As always, there is no predicting how he’ll handle the jump in competition in the NFL.
