Stat predictions for the Chicago Bears 2023 rookie draft class

Chicago Bears 2023 2nd-Round Draft Pick: Gervon Dexter Sr., DT

45 tackles, 8 TFLs, 4.5 sacks

The Bears' selection of Gervon Dexter Sr. with the 53rd pick would have looked like an absolute steal one year ago. He was widely projected to be a first-round pick and was regularly mocked in the top half of the round as recently as last December.

It remains to be seen why he tumbled down the boards throughout the draft process (especially after testing extremely well at the combine), but the rest of the league's loss could be Chicago's gain. He is one of the most physically gifted interior defensive linemen in the class and has drawn comparisons to Chiefs star Chris Jones.

Chicago desperately needed to improve the defensive line through the draft, and Dexter has a chance to make an immediate impact for the Bears up front. With that said, much like the offensive tackle position, interior defensive linemen rarely perform at a high level early in their careers. Expectations will have to be tempered, even if Dexter is listed as a starter on day one.

The biggest question around Dexter is his get-off, as he struggles to anticipate the snap and is often a step behind as a result. Luckily, this is something that the coaching staff should be able to teach him. He is unlikely to become a force as a pass-rusher with the slow get-off issue, but his massive frame should allow him to be impactful against the run regardless. However, it would not be surprising to see him also become a quality pass-rusher if they can improve that area of his game early in his career.