Round 2, Pick 45: The Chicago Bears select Boston College guard Zion Johnson
Like many mock drafts floating around, this one starts with the Bears making a trade to acquire additional draft capital this year. The Bears trade their no. 39 pick this year to the Cleveland Browns, along with a third-round pick next year. In return, Ryan Poles is now sitting with three top-100 picks.
With pick no. 45, the Bears go offensive line, keeping Justin Fields in mind at the top of their priorities. Boston College guard Zion Johnson is one of the better guards in this year’s class, and it’s no surprise Poles not only opts for offensive line, but a former Eagle like himself.
Johnson stands 6-foot-3 and weighs around 315 pounds. He is a physical blocker who is rarely seen using poor technique. He’s played both tackle and guard in his career, but most agree he’s best suited on the inside due to his lack of length. It would be nice, though, for the Bears to have a guy who may be able to step in at tackle when needed.
He projects best in pass blocking, but is no slouch when it comes to the run game. Having an interior lineman who is a strong pass blocker, though, is something Poles should be looking for. Fields was rarely protected inside last season, as both James Daniels and especially Sam Mustipher had some tough stretches.