Now that the Bears have formalized extending the Franchise Tag to receiver Allen Robinson, the team is pivoting to checking in other players who could aid in boosting the offense’s profile.
And they’re doing it in notable fashion:
#Bears rolling strong at Northwestern pro day this morning to see one of the top O-line prospects in the draft – Rashawn Slater.
Ryan Pace, Matt Nagy & Juan Castillo all in attendance.https://t.co/vMdyXSilG6
— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) March 9, 2021
The Tribune’s Brad Biggs tweets that GM Ryan Pace, Head Coach Matt Nagy, and Offensive Line Coach Juan Castillo are together taking in Northwestern’s Pro Day. Presumably, offensive tackle Rashawn Slater is at the top of their watch list.
That just about anybody who is somebody involved in the Chicago Bears’ decision-making process is watching Slater piques my interest. Especially when it comes to evaluating draft-eligible offensive prospects. And when we narrow it down to offensive linemen, it’s only right that Castillo gets an eyes-on look at Slater. I mean … why else would the OL Coach be in attendance? All things considered, it’s encouraging that Castillo gets a look at Slater in a space where he can immediately relay his thoughts and assessments about the prospect. Pace and Nagy might use “collaboration” — this year’s buzzword — to describe what they’re doing. But I would refer to it as good process from a team that hasn’t been consistently great with its offensive line investments.
Speaking of which, the Bears need to make some more this offseason. Because while releasing right tackle Bobby Massie clears some cap space, it also opens a starting gig. Sure, Chicago could opt with an internal option such as Alex Bars. But a more prudent move would be to snag a top prospect early in the 2021 NFL Draft. Not only do the Bears currently have picks in the first and second round, this happens to be a class loaded with prospects who have tremendous upside and potential. And Slater certainly fits the mold as a first-round talent who can start upon arrival.
In other words, this better not be the last time Pace, Nagy, and Castillo have their eyes on top blockers.