Round 1, Pick 9: OT Paris Johnson Jr, Ohio State / 6’6 313 LBS
One of the highest ranked offensive linemen in the entire draft, Paris Johnson is your prototypical tackle. Johnson will turn 22 in July of 2023, and has plenty of experience all around the offensive line. He’s for sure a target in the first round for the Chicago Bears.
With his massive 6’6, 313-pound frame; it’s obvious to see why NFL scouts are so high on this kid. He’s got elite upper body strength and is agile enough to seal the edge against the best of EDGE rushers. His footwork is picture perfect, and probably my favorite thing about him after watching his tape. His progression from sophomore to junior year was also quite impressive. Check out his extension on this clip.
Iowa EDGE Lukas Van Ness is probably the best speed-to-power rusher in this class.
Great rep against a top-10 prospect in Paris Johnson Jr.
Extension. Hands above eyes. Leg drive. pic.twitter.com/eMhBNegnIg
— Tyler Brooke (@TylerDBrooke) April 2, 2023
He played guard during his first few years in school and moved to full time left tackle last year. As good as his upper body strength is, he does need to improve on his lower body in order to get better in the run game. There are obviously some flaws in his game, (like everyone has) but the good outweighs the bad in my opinion. He’s coachable and seems willing to keep improving.
The Chicago Bears have already met with Johnson twice, making him one of four prospects to meet with the Bears more than once. It’s clear that Poles has interest, as he’s vocalized his want for athleticism, length, and quickness. Three things that Johnson has in his well-rounded arsenal. His elite size and impressive track record is the reason for this selection.
Johnson could come into this locker room and make immediate impact. Poles made some improvements during free agency, and the roster already has some nice depth pieces, but the job is not done. A huge tackle like Paris Johnson could really change the offensive and allow Justin Fields to blossom as a passer.
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