Cracking the code on the Chicago Bears defensive line for the draft
The Chicago Bears DL code
The Chicago Bears preferred body type and style of players are starting to come to light on the defensive side of the ball in some spots. In the latest signing of defensive lineman Rasheem Green, Ryan Poles and Matt Eberflus have a type. We know about the HITS principle and the speed, strength, and length, But what does that really mean? Let's look at the players over the past two years.
Justin Jones | Event |
|---|---|
6'3" 309 lbs 33 1/2" arm length | Build |
5.09 | 40-yard dash |
1.76 | 10-yard split |
29" | vertical jump |
24 | bench reps |
Al-Quadin Muhammed | Event |
|---|---|
6'3" and 253 lbs 33 1/4" arms | Build |
4.88 | 40-yard dash |
1.73 | 10-yard split |
30.5" | vertical jump |
22 | bench reps |
Andrew Billings | Event |
|---|---|
6'1 311 lbs 33" arm length | Build |
5.05 | 40-yard dash |
1.77 | 10-yard split |
27.5" | vertical jump |
31 | bench reps |
These are the current defensive lineman on the Chicago Bears roster that Ryan Poles and Matt Eberflus acquired. The positions include both types of defensive tackles. Something to notice is they all have long arms, good 10-yard splits on their runs, and are strong. Many believe that speed might mean a fast 40-yard dash, but the Bears don't care about their defensive linemen's track speed.
DeMarcus Walker | Event |
|---|---|
6'4 280 lbs 33" arm length | Build |
4.88 | 40-yard dash |
1.71 | 10-yard split |
31 1/2" | vertical jump |
20 | bench reps |
Rasheem Green | Event |
|---|---|
6'4 280 lbs 33 1/4" arm length | Build |
4.73 | 40-yard dash |
1.66 | 10-yard split |
32.5" | vertical jump |
23 | bench reps |
Dominique Robinson | Event |
|---|---|
6'5 253 lbs 33 1/4" arm length | Build |
4.72 | 40-yard dash |
1.67 | 10-yard split |
41" | vertical jump |
25 | bench reps |
Learning this about the Chicago Bears was what I was waiting for to guess better who they will be targeting in the draft. Sadly, my Calijah Kancey thoughts will be out of my head. That should be the same for those who love Siaka Ika this year. However, I never thought he was a scheme fit. Not that Ika isn't talented, but man, he isn't close to being a scheme fit. Outside of further interviews, this could explain why the Bears brought in Jalen Carter. They have to see with their eyes if he can move the way they want.