Chicago Bears find foundational pieces on offense in 2021 NFL Mock Draft

Round 4, Pick No. 107 via NYJ

When running this mock on the NFL Mock Draft Database Simulator, I accidentally made the wrong selection meaning to taking D’Ante Smith out of East Carolina. Smith played at a smaller school in East Carolina, but he got the opportunity to showcase his talent at the Reese’s Senior Bowl.

Smith got good playing time as a true freshman in their opening game but suffered an injury causing him to redshirt the season. Then in 2017, he earned himself five starts split between tackle and guard. The following season, Smith started all 12 games at left tackle. His senior season he checked out of the season opener following an injury then opted out of the rest of the season to prepare for the NFL Draft.

A personal preference for me when looking at prospects is a wrestling background and Smith was a monster on the wrestling mat. His abilities on the mat helped him become the force on the offensive line he is. Smith run blocks as he wrestles by finishing every block and playing extremely aggressively. Smith additionally has great frame and length but needs to put muscle on his frame to become a mauling right tackle.

With the current offensive tackle room of Leno, Ifedi, and then Little, Smith has the opportunity to learn behind the veterans and put some mass on his frame. He showed great promise at the Senior Bowl but also showed he needs some work to be able to handle the strong pass rushers.