Ryan Poles sent a loud and clear message on Day 2 of the draft. After handing his offensive line much-needed help with Darnell Wright on Thursday night, it was all about the defense in the 2nd and 3rd rounds. In a flurry of moves between the 53rd and 64th picks, the Bears added two defensive tackles and a cornerback. Gervon Dexter beefs up their run defense with his large, powerful frame. Tyrique Stevenson gives them sorely-needed depth in the secondary. Lastly comes South Carolina defensive tackle Zacch Pickens, one of the most explosive interior guys in the draft and a perfect fit for this defense.
The stats never stood out with Pickens in college, but the tape did. Whenever he was allowed to attack up the field, he would have an impact. Quarterbacks would feel his presence and he could make plays in the backfield. One could argue the coaches at South Carolina never used him properly. That won’t be a problem in Chicago. They will take full advantage of his explosive athleticism and 34-inch arms. If this guy builds his arsenal of pass rush moves, he has the potential to be a serious problem for opposing guards and centers.
Ryan Poles remains committed to his thresholds.
He wants guys of a certain size, athleticism, and length. Pickens checks all three boxes. He’s also a high-energy player. Such types are never a bad thing. Much of his future depends on Matt Eberflus and his coaching staff. If their developmental capabilities are as good as Ryan Poles says they are, then Pickens can be a genuine stud for this defense. His best days are ahead of him. As always, some good luck is needed. There is no telling how things will unfold. From a pure talent perspective, it’s hard to argue with this choice. He fits exactly what this team wants to do.
