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Chicago Bears Daily 2017 NFL Draft Prospect: Western Michigan OL Taylor Moton

By Dan Schmelzer

Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Wisconsin Badgers defensive end Alec James (57) and Western Michigan Broncos offensive lineman Taylor Moton (72) in action in the 2017 Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers defeat the Broncos 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Wisconsin Badgers defensive end Alec James (57) and Western Michigan Broncos offensive lineman Taylor Moton (72) in action in the 2017 Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers defeat the Broncos 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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We continue to look at potential 2017 NFL Draft targets for the Chicago Bears with insight into Western Michigan offensive lineman Taylor Moton.

When we look at specific needs for the Chicago Bears in the 2017 NFL Draft, quarterback, safety and cornerback clearly stand out. That said, the Bears will obviously look to improve the team in a variety of different ways. Offensive line is a position that could become a huge strength for the team with one right move.

Related Story: 2017 NFL Draft: Late-Round Sleepers for the Bears

With Josh Sitton, Cody Whitehair and Kyle Long, the Chicago Bears have one of the best interior offensive lines in the NFL when healthy. However, their situation at offensive tackle is far less desirable. Charles Leno has some raw upside at left tackle, but he has been too inconsistent. Bobby Massie is never going to be anything more than a below average starting right tackle.

I doubt that the Bears can replace both of their tackles in one off season. But they could certainly take care of one, and starting with a Massie replacement makes the most sense. Taylor Moton would be an ideal replacement at right tackle for Massie.

Moton is an extremely strong and powerful offensive lineman who absolutely dominates in the run game. He moves defensive linemen at the point of attack and drives them straight backward. He is an absolute mauler who would immediately give Jordan Howard more holes to run through in the run game.

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Power is clearly the name of the 6-5, 330-pound Moton’s game. However, do not discount his ability to move up front. Moton is a relatively quick and athletic offensive lineman who moves extremely well for a man of his size. He needs to work on his technique and footwork in pass protection, but the skills are certainly in place for him to succeed in protecting the quarterback at the next level.

This offensive tackle class is weak, but Moton is a diamond in the rough who could become a big-time steal. His reputation has begun to gain steam since the Senior Bowl. Playing for John Fox‘s North squad at the Senior Bowl, Moton proved that he can compete against the highest level of talent. He is a talented offensive lineman who could start at right tackle for the Chicago Bears on day one.

If Moton is still available when the Bears go on the clock in the third round, the Chicago Bears would be crazy to pass. In fact, if the right combination of players have already been taken, the Bears could even consider Moton with their early second round selection.

Next: NFL Free Agency 2017: Specific Players Bears Should Target

He is a talented player who would immediately fill a position of need for the Chicago Bears. If Moton could hit his upside at right tackle for the Bears, they could quickly have an elite-level NFL offensive line.

Check in tomorrow as we profile Texas Tech quarterback Pat Mahomes; another possible 2017 NFL Draft target for the Chicago Bears.

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