Chicago Bears trade up to retry at quarterback in 2021 mock draft
By Joseph Herff
OT. DillonRadunz. 52. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. North Dakota State. 57
Chicago Bears: Round 2, Pick No. 52
The former FCS prospect had some question marks around his game entering the 2021 NFL Draft, but Dillon Radunz buried those concerns with a great Senior Bowl showing. He showed that he can make the jump as he consistently handled high-end draft prospects all week long in Mobile.
Originally recruited as a 2-star defensive lineman, the North Dakota State coach immediately saw potential in him as a tackle and made the switch. He ended up being a two-year starter for the FCS powerhouse North Dakota State Bison and earned himself FCS first-team All-American honors in 2019. He, unfortunately, didn’t get a 2020 season due to FCS moving their season to the spring of 2021.
It was clear and obvious when you roll his tape that he doesn’t belong in the FCS. Radunz not only uses his physical abilities to dominate lesser opponents, but he additionally displays great technique as well. It’s rare you see that combination especially coming from the FCS. Radunz has the body and athletic ability to succeed at tackle in the NFL. He’s best utilized in the run game though where he absolutely murders opposing defenders.
The Bears released Bobby Massie and currently have Germain Ifedi and Alex Bars likely battling it out for the starting right tackle spot. Ifedi played solid there in 2020 despite changing positions during the middle of the season, but the Bears could use an upgrade by getting Radunz in the second round. He’d be an immediate starter at right tackle.