Chicago Bears first round big board, spoiler: no QBs
By Peter Jurich
Chicago Bears Draft Board: 6) Paris Johnson Jr, OT Ohio State
Somewhat the opposite of Skoronski, Ohio State’s Paris Johnson Jr is a former guard who transitioned to left tackle in 2022. His size seems to fit more naturally than that of a tackle, as Johnson stands at 6’6″ and 315 lbs. Despite being an excellent run blocker at both guard and tackle, Johnson’s transition to the edge was a little slow, as working on an “island” so to speak in pass protection is a unique experience when compared to the help received at guard.
However, Johnson’s size, as well as his strength and powerful hands, make him an interesting prospect at tackle, and for a team like the Bears who may have their own left tackle, his experience at guard as a run blocker could make it easier for him to start out on the right side of the line, where defensive ends are usually a little bigger but slower. Johnson’s got some ways to go to become an amazing tackle, but he has all the intangibles to make the transition fairly flawlessly. At a coveted position like tackle, expect Johnson to be a top-15 pick this spring.
NFL Comp: Christian Darrisaw
Chicago Bears Draft Board: 7) Quentin Johnston, WR TCU
Likely the first receiver off the board, Quentin Johnston has proven that he can be a playmaker in almost every facet of the passing game. At 6’4″, Johnston has an elite catch radius and the physical presence to elevate and come down with 50/50 balls. Despite his size, Johnston can do much more than just catch jump balls, as he has proven his ability to run with the ball in his hand, even against a good defense like Michigan.
With a legitimate 4.40 speed at his size, Johnston isn’t just a true number-one receiver, but he has multiple ways of getting open and making a play. Look for him to go in the top 15 of this year’s draft.