Chicago Bears: The picture-perfect 2021 NFL Mock Draft
By Ryan Heckman
Scouting Report. DL. player. 57. 7. Pick Analysis. Oregon. AustinFaoliu
Adding some defensive line depth would be a good idea for the Chicago Bears
Over the last couple of years, the Bears have used a mixture of different guys to back up their starters along the defensive line. Last year, with Eddie Goldman opting out, things were made a lot more difficult in that area.
Bilal Nichols was shredded in the run game when he lined up at nose tackle, and the Bears were really without an adequate replacement at that position. With Goldman returning this year, the Bears’ starting front is in good shape.
But, Chicago could use a developmental type of lineman who can become a rotational guy for them for the next few years. They’ve had guys like Roy Robertson-Harris, Mitch Unrein, Nick Williams, Mario Edwards and John Jenkins move in and out over the last few years. Robertson-Harris is the only real staple for the Bears in that group, and he may be gone soon.
Austin Faoliu is a nice shot in the dark here in the seventh round. The Oregon lineman is more accustomed to playing on the interior, which could help the Bears if they’re ever without Goldman again.
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Possessing average athleticism, Faoliu is more of a run-plugging type of player. He can improve by finding some true pass rush moves, but as a seventh-rounder, this is about as good a player as you’ll find. He has a ways to go, but adding a young lineman would help depth in the long run.