2022 NFL Draft: Grading the Bears’ pick of Illinois center Doug Kramer

The Chicago Bears selected Illinois center Doug Kramer in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL draft. Kramer makes it three offensive linemen selected by General Manager Ryan Poles on day three.

Kramer, a three-time captain, started 12 games last season, bringing his career total to 41 starts. At 6-foot-2 and 299 pounds, he’s a system fit for offensive coordinator Luke Getsy and will compete for a backup role in 2022.

Kramer earned a 75.4 grade from Pro Football Focus in 2021 and is a veteran of nearly 3,100 collegiate reps. His experience is an asset that should serve him well in his first training camp, but he’s an undersized prospect who needs to add a few pounds to hang against NFL power.

Kramer joins Braxton Jones (OT, Southern Utah) and Zachary Thomas (iOL, San Diego State) as offensive linemen heading to Chicago as fifth- and sixth-round picks. The Bears were expected to revamp their offensive line’s physical and athletic profile, and all three rookies fit that description.

The reality, however, is that Kramer will face an uphill battle to make the active roster. He’s a good practice squad candidate, the Bears can stash him there while he bulks up. His best-case scenario is as a backup interior lineman. The Bears earn a “C” for this pick.