If you’re paying close enough attention to the Chicago Bears offseason, it’s clear that right tackle will be general manager Ryan Poles’ first choice in the 2023 NFL draft. At least, he’ll select an offensive lineman who initially plays on the right side, even if their long-term upside is as a left tackle.
Last year’s fifth-round pick, Braxton Jones, emerged as one of the best value selections in the 2022 NFL draft. He started all 17 games at left tackle and is penciled in to be that guy again in 2023. But the quality of offensive tackle prospects who should be available for the Bears in the first round have higher ceilings than Jones, which makes a swap to the right side within a range of outcomes for the former Southern Utah star.
One of those quality 2023 draft prospects is Georgia’s Broderick Jones.
Jones fits the athletic profile Ryan Poles covets. He registered an elite 9.56 Relative Athletic Score (RAS) after his NFL Combine performance, which matches his film. He might be the most athletic offensive tackle in the draft class.
It wouldn’t be a surprise if Jones is the first offensive tackle drafted and if the Chicago Bears pick him at No. 9.
In this NFL Draft series here on Bears Talk, you get to form your own opinion on whether a prospect warrants the Bears’ consideration at No. 9 overall (or even later).
Next up: Broderick Jones.
(Previous film rooms: Paris Johnson Jr. | Peter Skoronski)
