Chicago Bears 2024 NFL Mock Draft: Justin Fields gets huge vote of confidence

One of the most glaring needs for this Bears team is undoubtedly at center. There is no question Chicago is going to move on from Lucas Patrick in free agency, and I am 99 percent certain the Bears will cut ties with Cody Whitehair, saving a good chunk of money in the process, too.

Early in the second round, the Bears go after maybe the draft's best center in Georgia's Sedrick Van Pran. This is a no-brainer for Poles and the front office. You see the best player at his position, and that position happens to be of dire need? Easy call.

Van Pran stands 6-foot-4, 310 pounds and gives you the prototypical center's build and talent set. He's a strong, dense frame and can move well in space. He's able to move laterally and also get to the second level quickly when needed. He's got a powerful base and some active, strong hands to pair. Van Pran will come in and improve this offensive line, as a whole, from Day 1. He's a strong communicator and a smart player, overall, able to recognize a lot of pre-snap changes from the defensive side.