Pro Football Focus published their latest 2021 NFL Mock Draft on Monday, and it sent the Bears a familiar name at No. 20 overall who would help generate an uptick in offensive production almost instantly.
And no, it isn’t a quarterback.
Instead, PFF sends the Bears USC offensive lineman, Alijah Vera-Tucker.
“Vera-Tucker impressed at left guard with a 78.8 overall grade and 87.9 pass-blocking grade during the 2019 season at USC,” PFF’s Ben Linsey wrote. “He followed that up this past season by showing he could do it at left tackle with an even better 81.8 PFF grade in 2020.
“His 32-inch arms will likely pigeonhole him into the guard position in the NFL, but Vera-Tucker at least showed that he’s capable of playing tackle if needed. He would boost an offensive line in Chicago that requires additional talent, particularly on the right side.”
Vera-Tucker is a popular target for the Bears in mock drafts. He’s the second-most mocked player to Chicago, per NFL Mock Draft Database, and he’d be a pick that would make a lot of sense.
The Bears have needs along the offensive line. In fact, it’s become something of a yearly problem for the offense. Even when the offensive line seems set, something goes awry. Injuries, poor play…something.
Vera-Tucker not only would not only be the most talented (or close to it) lineman on the Bears, he’d also be one of the most versatile. He can play outside or inside; wherever Chicago needs him, he can start. That’s a huge plus for any prospect’s draft stock and it’s a big reason why he’ll probably come off the board before the Bears are on the clock.
