2021 NFL Draft: Three-round 2021 NFL mock draft with top 10 surprises
2021 NFL Draft: Round 1, 14th Overall
OT. 57. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Michigan. Jalen Mayfield. 14
The Chicago Bears being able to add a legitimate franchise quarterback would be ideal here. However, with the top four quarterbacks off of the board, any selection at the position here would be a reach. Instead, the Bears look to address their next largest need, the offensive line.
Chicago does have some talent on the interior of their offensive line, but their offensive tackle situation simply must be addressed. The Bears continue to start Charles Leno and Bobby Massie as their bookend tackles and they continue to struggle and make life difficult. This team simply must address their offensive line situation this offseason and find at least one solid starter at tackle.
With the 14th pick of this mock draft, the Bears make that addition with the selection of Michigan offensive tackle Jalen Mayfield. Mayfield has been fantastic for the Wolverines this season and it has undoubtedly benefitted his 2021 NFL Draft stock. At this point, Mayfield feels like a safe bet to be a first-round selection and could easily end up landing in the top-12 picks or so.
Mayfield is a big and athletic tackle who moves well in space and shows good power at the point of attack. He mirrors well in pass protection and does a great job of clearing out lanes in the run game. Mayfield knows how to use his long arms well and shows tremendous grip strength throughout the play. Simply put, he is a gifted offensive tackle prospect who could come in and provide an immediate upgrade for the Bears at one of their bookend spots.