Chicago Bears: What did Pace, Nagy see in each 2018 NFL Draft pick?

Center/Guard James Daniels, Iowa

When the Bears saw James Daniels fall in their lap in the second round, they had to be downright giddy. Many experts pegged Daniels as a first-round talent and as the second-best interior lineman in the entire draft class, but for some reason was the fourth taken overall.

Pace and Nagy most definitely went to new offensive line coach Harry Hiestand for some insight, and the consensus was that Daniels was hands-down the pick at no. 39. Nagy answered a question in his post-draft press conference, regarding Hiestand’s input:

"“We’d be crazy to not take Harry’s (Hiestand) advice into what he sees.”"

Nagy went on to describe Daniels in a short, but fitting manner.

"“You see a guy that can drive you off the ball. He can finish.”"

The obvious aspect of this pick was the need behind it. But, if you look at one of Daniels’ strengths, it is like that of Cody Whitehair — the ability to play both center and guard. Daniels will be slotted in at guard to begin with, but if injuries happen — and there’s always a good chance they will — Daniels could fill in along the interior without missing a beat.