Chicago Bears establish their identity in this 2022 mock draft

Lighter and more athletic equals Zach Tom.

It’s hard to find a single person who was in on Tom before he had himself an outrageous combine. That athleticism is very evident on the film. He is an easy mover in his pass sets and rarely gives up the edge. Not to mention, an awesome understanding of punch timing and placement.

His anchor and functional strength are problematic though. Power gave him issues. He also had a hard time drive blocking in Wake Forest’s inside zone run scheme. With that being said, I think that is what will be alluring for the Bears.

If they are becoming more of a wide zone team, they won’t ask as much out of Tom from a strength perspective. It’s much more about athleticism, framing and horizontal movement. That scheme change could greatly benefit him.

Some people see Tom on the inside, I think he can play tackle. He most likely won’t ever be a highly sought after commodity if he doesn’t get stronger. But, if the Bears could find an average starter on day 3, that is a win.

When solely looking at JT Woods’s athletic profile, it would not be crazy to think he could be a first round pick. 4.36 speed, 40″ vertical and 128″ broad jump is elite athleticism and it oozes off the screen when watching him. His closing speed from a stand still is out of this world.

The problem is that he is a chicken with his head cut off at the moment. He runs around with no plan and gets himself into some dangerous situations. The play recognition and angle calculation to the football is still very much a work in progress.

Will that every change? I am not sure but am willing to bet on those tools to find out. Matt Eberflus prided himself on being a great teacher. Well Flus, here is the ultimate ball of clay. Turn him into something special.