Chicago Bears Draft Scout: Tyquan Lewis

Is Ohio State edge defender Tyquan Lewis a versatile option for the Chicago Bears?

Tyquan Lewis was a prized recruit on the Ohio State defensive line. After rotating in as a freshman, he became a starter in his sophomore year. In his junior year, he put up eight sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss. It led to him being named Big 10 defensive lineman of the year. As a senior, he put up seven sacks and 9.5 tackles for loss. He finished his career named to the All-Big 10 team. With three years of starter production, is he worth a shot on the Chicago Bears?

Measurables:

Age: 23

School: Ohio State 

Strengths

Lewis has good size and strength to get upfield and shoot gaps in the run game. He plays with vicious hands and possesses good arm length. He is able to keep lineman away from him. Lewis has the size to rush the passer on the outside and set the edge on early downs, but also slide inside to rush the passer against interior lineman on pass rushing downs.

Weaknesses

Lacks the bend and quick burst off of the ball to be considered a strong pass rushing option. Can set the edge, but does not get outside laterally with speed easily.  Lewis is already 23 years old and without a refined pass rushing arsenal it is tough to find upside in what he can become. He can be a rotational edge rusher on running downs and can slide inside on passing downs.

Pro Comparison and Fit for Chicago

Mario Edwards Jr. 

The Oakland Raiders have had the issue of just how to specifically get Mario Edwards on the field. His health hindered the career of Edwards, but the usage has also been an issue. A team drafting Lewis will have to find the best way to use him. There is no real upside to be had out of him, and what you see is what you will get. He can help in the running game, but his pass rush is limited.

A fit for Chicago

As a depth pass rusher who could fall into the later rounds, he may be worth a look. However, he is not the type of player that the Chicago Bears typically look at. They are shooting for high upside bets. While they would like his versatility, the fact that his most promise as a pass rusher coming on the inside does not make him a specific need for the current team. Eddie Goldman and Akiem Hicks can rush from the inside. They need speed and power against tackles. That is not what he provides and makes him an unlikely fit.