The Chicago Bears revamp the offense in this 2022 NFL mock draft

The Chicago Bears select tight end, Jeremy Ruckert – Ohio State

With Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave not available for the Chicago Bears in the first round of this mock draft, Ryan Poles decides to pair Justin Fields with a different former teammate. Jeremy Ruckert played with Justin Fields in both 2019 and 2020. He was not a main focal point of the Buckeyes’ offense, but Ruckert does many things well.

Ruckert’s best season was his final one without Justin Fields. He played in 11 games, caught 26 balls for 309 yards and scored three touchdowns. That said, while playing with Fields in 2019 and 2020, Ruckert scored four and five touchdowns respectively. His yardage was lower, but Fields clearly looked for him in the end zone.

The problem with looking at Jeremy Ruckert as a draft prospect is that the tight end position is not used in the passing game like some of the other teams throughout the NCAA. When watching his tape, there are plenty of positives to look at though. Pairing Ruckert and Cole Kmet in this offense would give Luke Getsy plenty to work with at the position. Then, the team can either bring back Jesse James or another veteran presence to round out the group.

As a prospect, Ruckert does a great job with delayed releases and shows his athleticism while facing one-on-one coverage. He is best in the red zone when the Ohio State receivers have less room to work with and makes Rucker more of a focal point. He has excellent hands and is an above-average blocker. I’d love to see the Bears land him in the fourth or fifth round.