Chicago Bears: The 2021 Mock Draft (trade) that saves Matt Nagy

Lastly, the Chicago Bears solidify depth at tackle

They may not have gone tackle early, but the Bears did indeed improve upon taking two no-name tackles in the seventh round last year. This year, they end their draft taking a lineman from Iowa in Alaric Jackson.

The 6-foot-6 Jackson adds another layer of competition to the tackle room. While he may end up sliding to guard, Jackson offers the Bears some versatility as a reserve lineman.

Jackson is a pretty quick player off the line and gives a good punch. He doesn’t have the length desired to play tackle, but he makes up for that with his ability to push forward and use strong hands to secure his man.

Because he doesn’t have elite length, he does get beat off the edge at times. If he is able to improve the twitch in his hips, Jackson may end up panning out at tackle. But, he’ll have to get better in that area should he want to keep up with NFL edge rushers.

The Bears need competition at tackle, nonetheless, and adding a Big Ten offensive lineman in the final round is certainly a good pick. Jackson could take some time to develop, but until the Bears find their future starters at the position, he will offer some needed depth.