The Chicago Bears kill it with this 2022 seven-round mock draft
By Joseph Herff
Chicago Bears Round 4, Pick No. 113 via ATL
Interior Offensive Lineman. Alabama. Pick Analysis. EmilEkiyor Jr.. 113. player. 829. Scouting Report
The greatest value of an offensive lineman in the NFL is versatility. An offensive lineman that is skilled enough to play multiple positions helps the team greatly. Emil Ekiyor Jr. can play both offensive guard and center.
Ekiyor isn’t a star by any means, but he has the ability to become a solid starter at both guard and center. He has the athletic ability and overall technical ability to develop into a long-term starter. His ability is best in run-blocking and his ability to block in space. Ekiyor’s overall mobility is very impressive.
If Ekiyor takes strides in the pass-blocking department, he could develop into essentially what Cody Whitehair was for years for the Bears: a guard/center playing whatever they needed him to play. Obviously, the Bears need a short-term answer for Sam Mustipher as he’s been horrid, but Ekiyor could develop into the long-term option while they sign a veteran to a one-year deal.