5 realistic Chicago Bears offensive line targets at 2022 NFL Combine
By Ryan Heckman
The Chicago Bears should watch Justin Shaffer at the 2022 NFL Combine
Senior
College: Georgia
Height: 6’3 5/8”
Weight: 326 lbs
Best trait: Nasty demeanor
A few years ago when the Bears desperately needed an interior offensive lineman, fans were all about the team potentially drafting Notre Dame guard Quenton Nelson. Unfortunately, he went right before the Bears could snag him — Roquan Smith was a nice consolation there.
Justin Shaffer isn’t as big of a name as Nelson was in his class, but the Georgia product has much of Nelson’s same demeanor. Shaffer is a guy who goes out to finish his opponent on every snap, and he lets them know.
He has tremendous, natural power for the guard position. Shaffer’s hands are also a match for his personality, as they are extraordinarily violent. He excels in run blocking and uses his power to open lanes when there may not have been one at first glance.
The one area Shaffer may not have all figured out is when it comes to his anchor and ability to stay grounded in pass protection against quicker pass rushers. The athleticism is something that needs a little work, and might ultimately be a reason the Bears pass on him. But, if they do draft Shaffer, they’re getting one powerful player, that’s for certain.