Chicago Bears: 5 current players that could be replaced in the NFL Draft
By Ryan Heckman
Chicago Bears players who could be replaced in the 2023 NFL Draft: Cody Whitehair, G/C
Some people forget, but Cody Whitehair is still here. And, if he’s healthy, he’s an above average starter. However, the Bears have a decision to make in the coming months. If Poles decides to cut Whitehair before June 1, then the Bears will save $13 million against the cap. That’s a big number, especially considering there are some great interior linemen available in rounds two and three this year.
Whitehair has been a pro’s pro since coming into the league as a second-round pick. He’s been a very good lineman for the Bears and hasn’t had too many off days, aside from some snap issues once upon a time. But, since his move to guard, he’s been solid. Keeping him would not be a bad decision at all.
But, again, this is another player who isn’t a Poles guy. He wasn’t drafted by this regime, therefore it would be easy for Poles to move on, save a good chunk of money, and look toward the future at the position. Should the Bears draft an interior lineman within the top three or four rounds, Whitehair very well could be gone shortly thereafter.