5 Chicago Bears offensive line targets to watch at 2022 NFL Combine
By Ryan Heckman
The Chicago Bears should keep a close eye on Luke Fortner at the NFL Combine
Senior
College: Kentucky
Height: 6’6”
Weight: 305 lbs
Best trait: Positional versatility
Speaking of positional versatility, that’s the best thing about this next guy. Luke Fortner spent multiple seasons starting at guard for Kentucky before playing center last season. He’s a multi-year starter and comes with a ton of experience. Whether the Bears want to play him at center or guard is up to them, but the fact that he can line up in both spots is a huge plus.
Some players struggle to adjust after switching from guard to center, or vice versa, but Fortner played very well last year for the Wildcats. The Bears could be running a lot of zone type run schemes, which fits Fortner well. He can get out in space whenever he’s asked, because of his being a little on the lighter side.
At 6-foot-6, Fortner is a towering man. But, he could afford to put on some weight, that’s for sure. The lack of weight and strength on his base shows at times, but if he’s able to put on some more mass, he’ll have an opportunity to carve out a long career. Fortner, like Smith, will be a Day 3 option for the Bears.