Ryan Poles Reportedly Focuses on Leading Prospect Prior to Draft
The 2023 NFL draft is just around the corner, and as it approaches, rumors are swirling ahead of the event, which commences on Thursday in Kansas City.
There has been considerable speculation about the Chicago Bears potentially trading down from their No. 9 position to accumulate more draft capital. This is after they already traded their No. 1 pick to the Carolina Panthers for a significant return.
However, according to a report from Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, the Bears appear to have their sights set on a specific prospect�Ohio State offensive tackle Paris Johnson Jr.
There's growing speculation that Johnson may not be available by the ninth overall pick, in which case the Bears would need to adjust their strategy. If that happens, Breer believes another offensive lineman could be their choice, or Poles might shift his focus to strengthening the defensive line.
Skoronski has also been mentioned as a potential target, and if both players are taken, Poles may concentrate on bolstering the defensive line.
If Johnson is indeed the Bears' top choice at No. 9 and he's not available, it's plausible that Poles could explore trading down, particularly if a late surge on quarterbacks raises the value of the No. 9 pick.
At 6-foot-6 and 310 pounds, Johnson could easily be the first tackle drafted. He has previously mentioned the Bears as one of the three teams he'd like to join, and if drafted, he would reunite with former college teammate Justin Fields.
Indeed, if Breer's information is accurate and Ryan Poles is indeed focused on Johnson, it's difficult not to be excited about the prospect. Many consider Johnson to be the top pure left tackle in this draft class. Trading down from the No. 1 spot, acquiring D.J. Moore in the process, and then securing a highly-skilled left tackle would be an impressive feat for the Bears' General Manager. This move would undoubtedly please Justin Fields. He already shares a connection with Johnson, as the two were college teammates and became friends. Reuniting the pair could benefit the team greatly.
As Read on- Ryan Poles Reportedly «Zeroed In» On Top Prospect Ahead Of Draft
| POLL | ||
24 AVRIL | 103 ANSWERS Ryan Poles Reportedly Focuses on Leading Prospect Prior to Draft Should Ryan Poles select Paris Johnson Jr.? | ||
| Yes | 74 | 71.8 % |
| No | 29 | 28.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
