2021 NFL Draft Grade: Chicago Bears

2021: 11, Justin Fields, Chicago Syndication The Columbus Dispatch

Picks

Round 1 Pick 11: QB Justin Fields

Round 2 Pick 39: OT Teven Jenkins

Round 5 Pick 151: OT Larry Borom

Round 6 Pick 217: RB Khalil Herbert

Round 6 Pick 221: WR Dazz Newsome

Round 6 Pick 228: CB Thomas Graham Jr. 

Round 7 Pick 250: DT Khyiris Tonga

Analysis

This was an extremely aggressive draft for a Chicago Bears team that sputtered to the finish offensively. They made two huge trades to get the guys they wanted in the first two rounds: Justin Fields and Teven Jenkins.

Fields has all the tools necessary to become a successful NFL quarterback. That is, as long as Matt Nagy can actually put together a scheme for him. 

Jenkins is one of the more polished o-linemen in this draft class as well. He has reps at both tackle positions and has mentioned even playing on the inside if necessary. He has a lethal combination of run/pass blocking capabilities, and he should fit right in along the Bears o-line. 

The Bears’ Day Three picks could be exciting as well. Larry Borom won’t get starting reps, but he’s a great depth player along the line. Khalil Herbert and Dazz Newsome should also provide some depth to the offense, and they could potentially become immediate playmakers in the kick/punt return game. Both are lightning fast and elusive, and their tapes are highlight reel material. 

While the Bears focus was obviously on the offensive side of the ball, they got quality players on defense as well. Graham has the talent of a Day Two prospect, but his decision to opt out of the 2020 season inevitably hurt his stock. Tonga could be another guy that is used on special teams for an immediate role while DT is filled by Akiem Hicks and Eddie Goldman. He is a block of cement along the d-like and is great as a run stopper. 

Grade: A

It’s obviously way too early to say whether this draft class is a success or not for Chicago, but as of now, it looks very promising on paper. Fields and Jenkins are both highly talented, and they fill desperate needs for the offense. Then on Day Three, the Bears found quality talent that all have the potential to boom in the NFL. Dazz Newsome and Thomas Graham specifically are players to watch as they get more comfortable in the league. This could be a draft that we look back on very highly for Chicago.

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