A look at the Chicago Bears best draft picks over the last 10 years
By Evan Bruner
Chicago Bears 2013 NFL Draft: Kyle Long
Selection: First Round (20th overall)
It’s hard to believe it’s been a decade since Kyle Long heard his name called during the first night of the 2013 NFL Draft. It’s even harder to believe how Long’s career came to an unfortunate end.
After battling injuries, he hung up his cleats at only 31 years old in 2019 and hasn’t stepped foot on a field since. Even though Long’s career might’ve been cut short, he more than made his mark as a Bear.
He excelled from day one, making a Pro Bowl in each of his first three seasons. During this time, Long was easily the best offensive lineman on the team and was, at times, the Bears’ single-best player.
What made Long a bit of a controversial prospect was his age. He was drafted at 24 and turned 25 during his rookie season. This might explain why Long’s body gave out so early into his NFL career.
Even if he didn’t play into his mid-30s, Long was undoubtedly worth a first-round selection and was the only notable pick from the 2013 class.