Bears set on offensive line
By NICK HUT
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Shaw Newspapers
Joe Thomas in 2007 and Jake Long in 2008 were offensive linemen who became top-three draft picks and lived up to the scouting reports.
In part because of their success, offensive linemen are more tempting than ever for teams with high picks. This year’s draft could include three offensive linemen among the top 10 choices.
Unlike quarterbacks, wide receivers and even defensive linemen, offensive linemen are considered relatively safe selections. More than some other positions, an offensive lineman’s performance in college can be considered a reliable indicator of his pro potential.
Bears watch
The Bears filled voids on their line through free agency and seem set at least for 2009.
At tackle, Orlando Pace will start on the left side, and Chris Williams and Kevin Shaffer will compete for time on the right.
At guard, Frank Omiyale and 2008 starter Josh Beekman will compete at one spot, and incumbent Roberto Garza will try to hold off Dan Buenning at the other.
At center, Olin Kreutz is a mainstay entering his 12th season. The Bears could try to groom Beekman as Kreutz’s eventual replacement.
In the middle rounds, the Bears will look for a tackle who can join Williams as a long-term building block. In the later rounds, they could seek depth at guard.
First-round picks
1. Jason Smith, T, Baylor. One of the best athletes you will find at this position and is fundamentally sound, as well. He’s a top-three prospect.
2. Eugene Monroe, T, Virginia. Considered right up there with Jason Smith and should go in the top six.
3. Andre Smith, T, Alabama. Intangibles are a big concern, but he’s as skilled as anyone else at the position. Must keep his weight down to be a legitimate left tackle.
4. Michael Oher, T, Mississippi. Has the potential to dominate but seemed to lack focus at times. Great in the running game; only pretty good in pass protection.
5. Eben Britton, T, Arizona. As mentally sound as any other prospect at his position but lacks the kind of strength he’ll need to dominate in the running game.
Second-round picks
1. Phil Loadholt, T, Oklahoma. A great frame at 6-foot-8 but is thought to lack elite athleticism and footwork.
2. William Beatty, T, Connecticut. A good, solid all-around package. Could sneak into the first round.
3. Max Unger, C, Oregon. Doesn’t seem to have any glaring weaknesses.
Best of the middle-round picks
1. Andy Levitre, T/G, Oregon State. Should try to put on weight and become a full-time guard in the NFL. A tough, feisty run blocker.
2. Jamon Meredith, T/G, South Carolina. Probably projects best as a tackle in the pros. A fine athlete who needs to improve his run-blocking.
3. Duke Robinson, G, Oklahoma. With a 6-5, 329-pound frame, he loses very few matchups.
4. Antoine Caldwell, C, Alabama. Good height and bulk should help him overcome a lack of blue-chip quickness.
5. Tyronne Green, G, Auburn. Solid in all areas. Scouts say he could use a bit more of a mean streak.
