3 underrated 2022 NFL Draft needs for the Chicago Bears
By Ryan Heckman
The Chicago Bears need to address the punter position in the 2022 NFL Draft
Talk about an underrated position, here. The Bears lost their longtime starting punter, Pat O’Donnell, to the Green Bay Packers this offseason. While O’Donnell is headed to their bitter rival, the Bears could end up being just fine.
O’Donnell was a fine starter, but he was never anything to get excited about at the position. He had his ups and downs.
Fortunately for the Bears, there are some great options in this year’s draft class. Late in the draft, in Round 6 or later, they could find one of a few guys. These include: San Diego State’s Matt Araiza, Penn State’s Jordan Stout, Colorado State’s Ryan Stonehouse and Illinois’ Blake Hayes.
Now, this need also may come by way of an undrafted free agent. Punter isn’t a position the Bears should necessarily spend high on, especially considering they don’t have a pick in the seventh round.
Some fans want to see the Bears go after an athlete like Araiza, but the cost needs to be considered. At this point, trusting Poles to find the right punter is all we can do.