Offensive line is no doubt one of the biggest roster concerns for the Bears. While the Bears brought in offensive linemen Germain Ifedi and Jason Spriggs during free agency, it wouldn’t be a surprise for the Bears to target a guard in the draft.
With a starting right guard spot up for grabs, Chicago figures to be in the market for a young guard. But while the offensive tackle class is a deep one, the same can’t be said for the interior linemen. With that said, there are some prospects that would be good fits for Chicago.
Let’s take a look at five offensive guards the Bears should target in the NFL Draft:
1. Cesar Ruiz, Michigan
Ruiz is arguably the best interior lineman in this draft class, and he’d be an immediate contributor for the Bears. While Ruiz has lined up at center for the last two seasons with the Wolverines, he’s capable of playing either left or right guard. Ruiz’s combination of athleticism, skills and technique make him a player that should develop into a solid interior lineman at the professional level.
2. Robert Hunt, Louisiana-Lafayette
Hunt has already garnered interest for the Bears during this pre-draft process, and it’s easy to see why. He’s a mammoth of a guy that has impressive power and mobility. Hunt plays with a nastiness that the Bears will surely miss without Kyle Long. While Hunt played most of his collegiate career at right tackle, he also has experience at guard. When it comes to the pro-level, Hunt best projects as an interior lineman.
3. John Simpson, Clemson
Simpson is another solid guard prospect that possesses the size and strength to be a force up front. While Simpson settled in at left guard with the Tigers last season, he has lined up on both sides of the line. The Bears can utilize Simpson where they see fit — but would figure to be on the right side — and considering the injuries sustained to the offensive line in 2019, his versatility would be an added plus.
4. Damien Lewis, LSU
The Bears are looking to fill the vacant role at right guard, and LSU guard Damien Lewis could very well be the guy for the job. Lewis started 28 straight games at right guard for the Tigers. He’s a physical force up front and does well under pressure. While Lewis does well in run blocking, he’s struggled in pass protection, which is certainly an area of his game he needs to improve.
5. Netane Muti, Fresno State
As the Bears search for a replacement at right guard, you have to talk about Muti. When discussing Muti, it’s hard not to discuss his strong upper body, which gives him an advantage both in pass protection and run blocking. While injuries remain the concern with Muti, he’s certainly a skilled guard that the Bears could target on Day 2.
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