Ryan Poles gets big value in this Chicago Bears 2022 Mock Draft
By Ryan Heckman
Round 3, Pick 71: The Chicago Bears select South Alabama wide receiver Jalen Tolbert
In round three, the Bears again go offense but this time give Fields a big-time weapon. Sometimes, going with a smaller school prospect can pay big dividends. In this case, Jalen Tolbert might end up being one of the draft’s biggest steals.
At 6-foot-3, 190 pounds, Tolbert possesses the size to be a legitimate outside threat and potentially a number one receiver in the NFL. He has a lot of different traits which make him well-rounded. Whether it’s his deep speed that allows him to be a legit threat downfield or his strength after the catch, Tolbert has a ton to like about his game.
More and more, we’re seeing receivers succeed when they are smart and crafty after the catch. Tolbert’s strength allows him to gain additional yardage after the catch, which is something the Bears lack at the moment.
Next to Darnell Mooney, Tolbert gives the Bears a young, dynamic duo for the next few years. Last year, Tolbert caught 82 passes for 1,474 yards and eight touchdowns. His 18.0 yards per reception is one of the more eye-popping numbers on his 2021 pedigree.
The Bears will have more work to do at wide receiver after pairing Tolbert and Mooney, especially with Allen Robinson leaving. However, Poles isn’t done here yet.