Chicago Bears Sniffing Around Another Nasty O-Lineman
Ryan Poles said one of his first objectives as GM for the Chicago Bears was to reshape the offensive line. It did a poor job overall in 2021, but it developed a troubling reputation for passivity. As a former blocker himself, Poles cannot and would not stand for that. So Germain Ifedi and James Daniels were allowed to leave. Lucas Patrick came in as their new center, and the Bears came close to adding guard Ryan Bates as well. Both men epitomized the “prick” attitude he wants standing in front of Justin Fields.
This philosophy has extended to their search for help in the upcoming NFL draft. With two starting jobs still up for grabs, it’s a safe assumption the Bears will select at least one offensive lineman in this class. Probably two presuming they are looking to add more picks via trade downs. At the same time, they also appear hopeful that somebody they covet could be unexpectedly available when they go on the clock at 39th overall.
One such name appears to be Kenyon Green.
Sources: Texas A&M All-American OL Kenyon Green, who made starts at every single offensive line position except center this past season, is with the #Cowboys today.
Also on his schedule: Giants, Eagles, Titans, Texans, Falcons, Bears and Patriots.
Busy.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) April 6, 2022
Green’s pro comparison from NFL.com draft expert Lance Zierlein is Richie Incognito. So that should give you an idea of what type of blocker he is. For those who don’t know, Incognito was a former Pro Bowler who had a reputation for being a bully on and off the field. While it’s uncertain if Green is any sort of locker room terror, there can be no denying that he loves to manhandle defenders. His size, power, and length allow him to overwhelm guys multiple times every game.
Kenyon Green (Texas A&M LG 55) just absolutely destroying a dude. ???? pic.twitter.com/0U68ny7aXf
— Russell Brown (@RussNFLDraft) June 29, 2021
Kenyon Green is a bad athlete? pic.twitter.com/dUIHnl2rXK
— Mike (@bengals_sans) March 8, 2022
Kenyon Green is ready to start tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/9KZ5cZH6hP
— Bob Sturm (@SportsSturm) February 21, 2022
The two primary questions with him are his overall mobility and his fundamentals. Green is a big dude and isn’t known for his quickness or speed. He also showed issues handling twists and stunts when opposing teams would blitz. For an offense like the Chicago Bears will run, these two factors are essential to know. Hence why they’re interested to visit with him. His athleticism should be enough to handle most responsibilities as a guard, and the other issues can be coached.
In truth, the real question is whether Green will be available when they pick. His talent is such that many believe he is a 1st round talent. Easily one of the best guards in this class. Slipping all the way to #39 feels like a long shot, but the Bears can’t know what will happen. So they’re preparing for the possibility.