2024 NFL draft: Chicago Bears could find their Darnell Wright on the left side

While Jones hasn’t been the worst offensive lineman during his tenure, an upgrade may be necessary to take this line to the next level. Jones will be a free agent after the 2025 season, and behind him the Bears currently lack a ton of depth. Is it possible that Poles could use a 2024 NFL draft pick on a tackle? With the limited selections currently at their disposal, it may be hard to justify with other needs.

A name to keep an eye on if they do indeed select a tackle is Taliese Fuaga from Oregon State. Standing 6 feet 6 inches and weighing in at 324 pounds, Fuaga is a force of nature who is soaring up draft boards after an impressive showing at the combine.

Taliese Fuaga is very talented. He’s got a strong, NFL ready frame, and is an absolute tank in the rushing attack. On film he looks aggressive, but also very calculated in his blocking decisions. Fuaga also seems to offer the gift of versatility, and may be able to play anywhere on the entire offensive line. That itself is a huge attribute at the next level, especially in the trenches.

2024 NFL draft prospect Taliese Fuaga is VERY similar to Darnell Wright; Should Poles invest another high pick in the OL?

If the Bears don’t trade back from the 9 spot in the 2024 NFL draft, they’ll have their pick at a surplus of talent. Elite wide receivers will likely be on the board, EDGE rushers Dallas Turner could be there, or another offensive lineman could have their attention.

Earlier in the month, I wrote an article linked here about how Fuaga looks up and admires Bears RT Darnell Wright. How fitting it would be to draft Fuaga and put the two together? It certainly has to be on the mind of Bears scouts, especially with the likelihood they draft a QB first overall. You need to protect your prize.

The Bears are certainly interested. They sent FIVE representatives to Oregon State’s pro day a week ago.

Take a look at each of their combine grades, and how similar the two really are.

Pretty comparable in a lot of those metrics. What stands out for Fuaga is his ‘Excellent’ explosion grade, which is another thing he’s getting praise for, as NFL scouts are starting to realize how special the Oregon State product could be. His motor and strength alone will be attractive to teams.

His footwork will need some fixing but Fuaga checks most of the boxes when looking for a tackle, on either side. I could see him moving to guard depending on the organization he’s selected to in the 2024 NFL draft. Hopefully the Bears can make sure this offensive line is ready to go come week one.

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