3 new NFC North players the Chicago Bears must worry about in 2021
By Joseph Herff
Players to concern Chicago Bears: Christian Darrisaw, OT, Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings have struggled greatly to protect Kirk Cousins at the offensive tackle position. The Vikings made a smart move trading back in the NFL Draft to acquire more picks before Christian Darrisaw fell right into their laps at 23rd overall. The value they got in this pick is incredible.
Darrisaw is a true offensive tackle with plenty of experience to back it up. While at Virginia Tech, he showed nearly no flaw to his game. Now, he will be tasked with protecting Kirk Cousins and aiding in paving the way for elite running back Dalvin Cook. The Vikings offense with this addition and the addition of Wyatt Davis for offensive guard is coming together.
Last season, the Vikings had Riley Reiff starting at left tackle and had him starting there each of the last four seasons. Reiff was never outstanding, but he wasn’t really ever bad either. Now, the Vikings have an offensive tackle that has elite upside and could develop into a top offensive tackle in the NFL.
The Bears already have Khalil Mack coming off the edge, but if Robert Quinn can stay healthy, they still should be able to generate a pass rush on Cousins. The issue will be stopping the run as Dalvin Cook gashed the Bears most recently for 132 yards and a touchdown in their second game last season.