Will Chicago Bears have interest in this OT prospect?

Kellen Diesch spent three seasons at Texas A&M as a high recruit who could not get onto the field consistently. Diesch transferred to Arizona State and got to start a couple of games in 2020, but due to the COVID shortened season, he was awarded another year in 2021 where he put himself on the 2022 NFL draft radar. Is he a player that fits what the Chicago Bears are looking for?

Kellen Diesch statistics and athletic measurements

16 starts for Arizona State, 1, 084 snaps, all at left tackle

58% zone blocking, 42% gap blocking

Thanks to MockDraftable, we are able to view how Kellen Diesch compares physically and athletically to other performers from past NFL combine events.

With Diesch, his profile has obvious pros and cons before you even put it on the tape. Athletically, he is elite. Not many are going step for him, as he is explosive, quick, and agile.

However, size-wise, he is very tall but very slender. With a slim frame comes short arm length and reach. It presents the obvious debate of whether or not his physical flaws can be masked by his athletic peaks.

Strengths that Kellen Diesch can translate to the NFL

Arizona State knew that he was athletic and used it to his advantage. They highlighted his ability to pull and get into the second level. He would often spring across the line of scrimmage and seal off edges as well as lead the way downfield.

His strengths are obvious in pass protection, as well. He is a smooth mover, and even elite athletes will struggle to beat him around the edge. Even on inside counters, his quick-twitch allows for quick recovery. His recovery quickness can show in a variety of ways in pass protection and does afford him some room for error in his pass sets.

Questions that will affect Kellen Diesch in the NFL

His obvious issues start with his length and his weight. At his size and frame, his body looks maxed out physically. His length becomes an issue as well and defenders who are squatty can get under him, and get their hands into his chest clean. This can obviously impact his power.

It was noted in his strengths that he can recover from missed steps, but too often you see him step too hard one way or the other and force himself into a vulnerable position. He is able to get by with athleticism, but his technique does not make up for his length as much as you would like.

Beyond that, he is going to be 25 years old as a rookie. The extra year was able to put him on the draft radar, but he is as old as some players who are getting their second contracts.

Who is the best NFL comparison for Kellen Diesch?