7 Day 2 prospects the Chicago Bears should target in the 2023 NFL Draft
By Peter Jurich
Chicago Bears Draft Target: Luke Wypler - C, Ohio State
In terms of starting caliber centers, this year's draft class is pretty loaded, despite the possibility that zero are taken in the first round. Ohio State's Luke Wypler is among the most interesting options, especially when looking at his prototypical size, measuring in at 6'3" and 300 lbs. Wypler is an incredibly heady player, and seems to have a great understanding of angles to take as a blocker and where possible pressure may be coming from.
In college, Wypler showed a great amount of talent as both a pass protector and a run blocker, and while he is not the most physically dominant lineman, he wins with his technique and athleticism. Wypler will likely have to get a bit stronger in the NFL, especially when considering his shorter arm length, but could develop into a quality starter with the Bears.
The Chicago Bears do not necessarily need a center for next season, especially with veteran Cody Whitehair slated to move back inside, but Wypler could be a nice investment in a player who would likely develop into the center of the future. He would be an interesting option to strengthen the offensive line for the next few seasons.
Pro Comp: David Andrews
Both Andrews and Wypler have shown the ability to anchor a professional offensive line, specifically as a pass protector, and while Andrews went undrafted in 2015, Wypler is certainly a more talented and higher touted prospect than the former Georgia center. Similar to Andrews, Wypler has the potential to be a starting center for a decade in the NFL.
Other C/IOLs to consider:
Steve Avila (TCU) is a physical, versatile prospect who could play as a guard or a center, but if he is off the board before the Bears select in the second round, Joe Tippmann (Wisconsin) and John Michael Schmitz (Minnesota) are interesting options at center, with Chandler Zavala (North Carolina State) being another great option, although he is more of a pure guard.