Chicago Bears address offensive tackle early in 2021 mock draft

Round 2, Pick No. 52

The fact that Liam Eichenberg is falling to the second round is atrocious. He is another guy that has first-round talent, but with the surplus of tackles this season, Eichenberg may see himself fall in the draft as not every team needs an offensive tackle this badly. Other teams’ mistakes become the Bears’ reward though as he falls to them here.

Pro:

Has the pedigree of starting for Notre Dame — known for making great NFL linemen. Good size and arm length for a tackle. Not a freak athlete, but solid athleticism as well. Quicker than expected and an elite run-blocker. Extremely high Football IQ which is common amongst Notre Dame linemen. Good pass protector as well. Didn’t allow a sack in 2019. Extremely high floor.

Cons:

Doesn’t have the ceiling that the other offensive tackles really have. Struggles with lateral mobility. Doesn’t have the speed to keep up with the fast edge rushers. Needs to improve a few small technical issues like punches.

Team Fit:

Along with Leno getting cut, the Bears need to cut Bobby Massie after June 1st as well. This will free up even more cap space. Even though Eichenberg played left tackle at Notre Dame, he can be groomed to be the right tackle of the future. The Bears’ offensive line would then be extremely solid while very young with Cody Whitehair being the oldest (28).