Chicago Bears 2015 Position Preview: OT

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Backups

Charles Leno Jr

Lacks the prototype size for an NFL tackle (6’4 | 303), but makes up for it with long arms for his size (34 3/8″). He isn’t a mauler, but he has very good feet, moves well laterally, and understands blocking technique and leverage enough to negate his lack of size and power. Leno has a good motor and is a smart player who uses his natural instincts to seal blocking lanes and hold up rushers in pass pro. He was very successful as a left tackle for a national title contender at Boise St and has been earning rave reviews from the Bears new coaching staff. Leno has the versatility to play either tackle spot or swing inside to guard, but I’m hearing rumors that he will be the primary backup for Bushrod at left tackle. If Bushrod continues to struggle and Leno has a strong preseason, he could push for a job in the starting lineup at some point in 2015.

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Michael Ola

Handpicked by former Bears HC Marc Trestman due to his familiarity with Ola from his time in the Canadian Football League. Ola looked like a steal early in the season when he was effective (4.0 grade) filling in for injured guard Matt Slauson over the first four weeks of the season. He appeared to hit the rookie wall shortly after that as he earned a -16 grade from PFF in 9 games at LT, RT, LG, and RG. Ola’s versatility is an asset and he showed the ability to be an above-average NFL blocker but needs to get more consistent and improve his stamina. He will need a strong training camp and preseason as the new regime has no ties to Ola and he doesn’t have enough of a pedigree to deserve a roster spot.