Chicago Bears come away with a haul in this updated 2023 NFL mock draft

The Chicago Bears add some protection for Justin Fields

It might be a little early to take a center, but I was a fan of John Michael Schmitz prior to the Senior Bowl and I am an even bigger fan now. He impressed me on many levels while watching drills and also played well in the game. Schmitz brings a vocality and leadership to the offensive line in a way that we haven't seen since Olin Kreutz was anchoring the offensive line.

Schmitz doesn't have the same mean streak as Kreutz did, but that does not stop him from getting physical on the field. Sam Mustipher will make a fine backup and the addition of Schmitz will allow Ryan Poles to move on from Lucas Patrick. Patrick struggled as the center and at guard. He can be cut, saving the team nearly $4 million dollars against the salary cap.

Sam Mustipher is not vocal enough when playing center. James Daniels had the same issue here in Chicago and this is why he couldn't remain at center. Instead, they moved Cody Whitehair back to center despite him being a better a left guard. We won't have that problem if the Bears draft and start Schmitz in 2023. He can be the anchor this offensive line needs and set the tone with Teven Jenkins on his right side.