The Chicago Bears trade down multiple times in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft

Chicago Bears (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
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Chicago Bears, Siaki Ika
Chicago Bears – Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Chicago Bears – Pick No. 42: Siaki Ika, DT – Baylor

We all know that the Chicago Bears need help on the defensive line. I already added a defensive end in this mock draft, but now I look to help the interior help. Jalen Carter is easily at the top of my draft board at the position, but landing Siaki Ika here at number 42 is a solid value.

Ika is a big man. He is 6’4″ and weighs over 350 pounds. He has some lateral movement to his game despite his size and can make some splash plays at times too. Ika was originally at LSU but transferred to Baylor in 2021. He brings versatility to his game also. He could play the 1-technique should the Chicago Bears add a 3-tech in free agency or look for Justin Jones to continue holding down that spot. He can also play the 3-technique but is limited by his inability to get off the snap quickly on a consistent basis.

In 2021, Ika finished the year with 3.5 sacks and six tackles for loss. This year he has yet to reach the quarterback and only has two tackles for loss. He is able to use his wide body to take on multiple blockers and help free up others. He isn’t a difference-maker like Jalen Carter or Bryan Bresee, but he would make for an immediate upgrade to the defensive line in 2023.