The paint isn’t even dry on the Chicago Bears’ 2020 draft class, but we officially have our first 2021 NFL mock draft — just about a year out.
The good news? As of right now, the Bears still have their first-round pick, which they couldn’t say two years ago. Whether that’ll be true less than a year from now remains to be seen.
Sports Illustrated took a crack at this way-too-early mock draft. Although, unfortunately, where the Bears are picking — 17th overall — indicates that we’re in for another disappointing season.
In this mock draft, SI has Chicago landing Alabama offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood, who would provide versatility at multiple positions, with the 17th overall selection.
The Bears had the 29th-ranked offensive line, per Football Outsiders’ 2019 rankings. Leatherwood has the versatility to play multiple spots along the Bears’ offensive line, as he has started 28 games for the Crimson Tide at both tackle and guard.
Leatherwood, a first-team All-SEC selection, was ranked No. 21 on Mel Kiper’s Big Board at one point prior to the 2020 NFL draft. Leatherwood started 28 games for the Tide, where previously played at right guard before moving to left tackle in 2019.
While it’s a safe bet that the Bears will need offensive line help — at this time — the hope is that new offensive line coach Juan Castillo can right the ship with the talent he is. But if that’s not the case, expect Chicago to attempt to add a top offensive lineman in next year’s draft.
