Chicago Bears Mock Draft: Ryan Poles does a masterful job filling holes

Chicago Bears, 2023 NFL Draft (Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports)
Chicago Bears, 2023 NFL Draft (Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports) /
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Chicago Bears, Kayshon Boutte
Chicago Bears, Kayshon Boutte (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

In the fourth round, this is where the Bears end up with an embarrassment of riches. Having already taken care of some big needs earlier, Poles continues going with the best player available. Fortunately, the fourth round sees the Bears end up with a guy who once was one of the top prospects in this draft.

LSU wide receiver Kayshon Boutte was looked at as one of the better wide receivers in this class as recent as a few months ago. Boutte had an inconsistent 2022 campaign after two strong years, and drops were a bit of an issue for him.

However, he has the size and speed to do a lot of positive things that jump off the tape. If he’s able to reel in mentally, Boutte has the potential to be a very good player at the pro level. Playing alongside guys like DJ Moore, Darnell Mooney and Chase Claypool could help him further his development, too. The Bears’ wide receiver room suddenly looks lethal after this pick.

Chicago is set at safety between Eddie Jackson and Jaquan Brisker, but drafting Ronnie Hickman gives this team some phenomenal depth. If Jackson eventually leaves Chicago, for whatever reason, Hickman could end up being the heir to Jackson’s spot next to Brisker.

One of the best things about Hickman that you’ll notice right away is his size. At nearly 6-foot-1 and weighing 203 pounds Hickman is a bigger defensive back who matches up really well with tight ends. He isn’t afraid of contact and, in fact, relishes in it. He is a disruptive player who will consistently annoy pass-catchers to the point of the catch and he is real good at breaking up the pass.