Chicago Bears mock draft after Smith, Quinn, and Claypool trades
TE. Iowa. 4. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. 878. Sam LaPorta
Chicago Bears mock draft round 4: Sam LaPorta, TE, Iowa
Cole Kmet can be an excellent player, but the Bears are looking for more from their tight end position. In this offense, the TE is critical to helping move the chains while the wide receivers use their athleticism and big play ability to get the home run shot. In the case of the Bears, Kmet is the guy who can move the chains when needed, but not very consistent, hence the need for a change.
That’s where Sam LaPorta comes in. Coming out of Iowa, LaPorta is one of the more underrated tight ends of the draft class. No, he’s not a burner, and no, he’s not generational. But he is productive and makes plays when needed. Last season, LaPorta recorded 53 catches for 670 yards, averaging 12.6 YPC and three touchdowns. However, the Iowa offense has been dreadful this season, and LaPorta looks limited.
That’s not entirely his fault. At the same time, he’s got to get better with his blocking skills. Many times, he looks a bit lost in blocking despite giving his best effort, and that needs to be addressed. The lack of stats has a lot to do with him being seldom used, and that’s primarily due to the inefficiency of the Iowa offense. If given an opportunity, LaPorta should have an excellent chance to succeed.
Oklahoma. Scouting Report. OC. 4. player. 815. Pick Analysis. Andrew Raym
Chicago Bears mock draft round 4 via TRADE (PHI): Andrew Raym, OC, Oklahoma
There’s no question that the Bears will be aggressive in attacking the trenches this offseason, and if they don’t, it will be painful. Having said that, the Bears need as many pieces as possible for the offensive line and having experienced college players with physical traits of excellence is a must, and that’s where Andrew Raym comes into the equation.
Coming from a program like Oklahoma, the Sooners are known to put starting-caliber linemen in the NFL at all positions. Moreover, the Bears require a player to run the middle of the line. Sam Mustipher has been a problem thus far, so reinforcements are required. Raym has the capability of stepping in soon and becoming a leader for this team.
The concerns for him would be his consistency of staying balanced as he has sometimes shown to get perplexed with opposing rushers. Still, with proper coaching and technique refinement, Raym can make an impact sooner than later.