ESPN published a seven-round 2023 NFL mock draft Wednesday that filled several areas of need for the Chicago Bears.
It kicked off in the first round with a new starting right tackle for QB Justin Fields. However, it’s a player who isn’t commonly sent to Chicago in mock drafts right now: Georgia’s Broderick Jones.
“Don’t be surprised if Jones is the top offensive tackle off the board,” ESPN’s Jordan Reid wrote. “I continue to hear his name in this range. General manager Ryan Poles covets length and physical traits, and Jones might have the most upside of the tackles in this class. The interesting dynamic about this is that Braxton Jones, a fifth-round pick last year, showed promise as the starter at left tackle. Would Jones slot into the right or left tackle spot here? It’s a great problem to have for a Chicago team that continues to remodel its offense around quarterback Justin Fields.”
I love this pick. Jones is the best athlete in this year’s offensive tackle class, which you know will rank high on Poles’ wish list. He also delivers a powerful strike on contact in the run game.
Indeed, Jones still has room to grow as a player. There are some technique lapses in pass protection, but his upside is undeniable. He’d pair with the other Jones — Braxton — to create a fantastic set of bookends for the foreseeable future.
