Chicago Bears: 3 reasons why James Daniels was the perfect pick
The “Hiestand” effect
When the Chicago Bears selected Roquan Smith at no. 8 overall, everyone knew Vic Fangio’s fingerprints were all over that pick. Similarly, Harry Hiestand likely had a significant influence on Daniels’ selection. As the old saying goes, “if an offensive lineman is good enough for Harry Hiestand, he’s good enough for me.” Well, maybe that’s not a saying — but it should be.
In any event, Hiestand’s opinion of offensive linemen is highly respected. He is renowned as one of the best, if not the best, offensive line coach in the game. He was largely responsible for the success of Quenton Nelson and Mike McGlinchey, both top-10 picks.
Q: Who wants a potential franchise center?
— Iowa On BTN (@IowaOnBTN) April 24, 2018
A: Every @NFL team, and @HawkeyeFootball's James Daniels is available: pic.twitter.com/qUUxnlmUZt
This is to say that he has a knack for developing talent. Bears fans were already hopeful he would have a big impact on improving somewhat of a strength for the Bears. Now, with the addition of Daniels, and an offseason to work with, Hiestand could turn this unit into one of the best in the NFC.
It might take longer than just one year, but to think Hiestand couldn’t turn this into one of the league’s best by year two together isn’t out of the realm of possibilities. Pace and Nagy both believe in this coach, and for good reason.