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Draft Grades For The Bears Picks

By Johnny Hatelak

Oct 17, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) and Missouri Tigers offensive lineman Nate Crawford (55) battle during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Missouri 9-6. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) and Missouri Tigers offensive lineman Nate Crawford (55) battle during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Missouri 9-6. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Cody Whitehair-Kansas State-OG-Grade: (A+)

Kansas State offensive lineman Cody Whitehair Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Kansas State offensive lineman Cody Whitehair Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /


Probably the biggest surprise of the draft for the Bears. This is also possibly the Bears best value pick. Not only is it tied to another three 4th round picks, but he was tabbed by many as the best offensive guard prospect in the entire draft and mocked by many to make the first round from the middle out. Pro Football Focus had him graded as the number one offensive tackle in the entire nation for the 2015 season including the best run block grade according to their grades and metrics.

He doesn’t have elite strength, but that will improve once he gets around the vets and Bears staff and they work on his nutrition and strength training. What he does have is big strong hands that once he gets on you and has a chance to latch on a defenders pads they’re pretty much neutralized in their pass rush and easily re-routed and manipulated in the direction of Whitehair’s choice in the run game. Also a great technician with excellent and consistent balance, hand positioning, and pad level. He’s also got elite athleticism. He can easily move around and perform combo blocks, execute pulls and traps, and get to the second level where he targets linebackers and defensive backs with pin point precision.

This pick also hearkens a change to the offensive line which will be likely at the left guard. This was pretty confirmed with the Matt Slauson cut earlier today. You don’t make a pick like this with the intention of adding depth. Given the fact Whitehair is highly regarded in the scouting community and the fact the Bears have the credo of best starting five on the roster expect Cody Whitehair to be a bear mainstay at the left guard spot for at least the duration of his rookie deal.

Next: Jonathan Bullard Bears #3 Pick

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