The Chicago Bears welcomed 10 new players to their roster this weekend during the 2023 NFL draft, including some impact players in offensive tackle Darnell Wright, defensive tackles Gervon Dexter and Zacch Pickens, cornerback Tyrique Stevenson and running back Roschon Johnson.
While it’s far too early to start evaluating general manager Ryan Poles’ second draft class before they’ve even hit the field, we’re taking an early look at this 2023 draft class, which includes three defensive tackles, three defensive backs, one offensive lineman, one running back, one wide receiver and one linebacker.
Here’s a round-up of all of our grades for each of the Bears’ 10 selections in the 2023 NFL draft.
Round 1, Pick 10: OT Darnell Wright, Tennessee
The Bears were in need of protection specifically on the right side opposite Braxton Jones, who it looks like will be the guy on the left side. Building a wall in front of Fields was clearly at the top of Poles’ to-do list by grabbing Wright. He had great success with the Volunteers, predominantly as a right tackle. — Jarrett Bailey
Grade: B+
Round 2, Pick 53: DT Gervon Dexter, Florida
Dexter has great length and athleticism when compared to most defensive tackles. At 6-foot-6, 310 pounds, he remains light on his feet and has consistently been disruptive. The Bears can move him all over their defensive line. Having that versatility is certainly a plus. — Jarrett Bailey
Grade: A
Round 2, Pick 56: CB Tyrique Stevenson, Miami
Stevenson, 6-foot and 214 pounds, possesses great perimeter strength, and that shows through how aggressive he plays. He doesn’t shy away from contact. As a matter of fact, he embraces it. Stevenson is arguably the most physical defensive back in the draft, and will be an immediate starter alongside Johnson and Gordon in the defensive backfield. — Jarrett Bailey
Grade: A+
Round 3, Pick 64: DT Zacch Pickens
Pickens has a nice combination of explosiveness and power. He can play both 3-technique and 1-technique, bringing versatility to the interior. Pickens has a disruptive first step that helps him both against the run and as a pass rusher. Pickens will serve as a key rotational piece in Matt Eberflus’ defense, where he’ll be asked to help rush the passer and stop the run. — Alyssa Barbieri
Grade: B+
Round 4, Pick 115: RB Roschon Johnson, Texas
The Bears add a mid-round gem of a running back in Johnson, who didn’t get as much limelight due to playing behind the draft’s top running back Bijan Robinson, but he will fit in well in Chicago. Johnson runs hard, and possesses a good balance of power and elusiveness. — Jarrett Bailey
Grade: A
Round 4, Pick 133: WR Tyler Scott
Chicago turned the Robert Quinn trade into a potential steal in Scott, who provides another weapon for quarterback Justin Fields. Scott has been compared to Darnell Mooney for his speed and agility. Scott is a speedster, as evidenced by his 4.32 40-yard dash and he averaged over 16 yards per reception. Scott also has playmaking ability, averaging 44.6 yards per touchdown catch in college. — Jarrett Bailey
Grade: B
Round 5, Pick 148: LB Noah Sewell, Oregon
Sewell, a three-year starter at Oregon, has the potential to be a steal for the Bears. He’s a high-motor, hard-hitting linebacker, who will provide solid depth on defense and be a core special teamer. Sewell looks the part, and is a good pass rusher for one who spends most of his time in the middle of the field. His past success warrants a late-round selection. — Jarrett Bailey
Grade: B
Round 5, Pick 165: CB Terell Smith, Minnesota
Smith has a nice combination of size (6-1, 204-pounds), speed (4.41), and length (32 7/8) that Matt Eberflus will love. The Bears got great value with Smith in the fifth round, as some believed he would go in the third or fourth round. Smith has great athleticism and instincts. He can battle with wide receivers on the outside and is great in run support. He’s got developmental upside and could prove to be a late-round steal for Chicago. — Alyssa Barbieri
Grade: B
Round 7, Pick 218: DT Travis Bell, Kennesaw State
Bell provides depth to the Bears’ defensive line. He’s undersized for a nose tackle but plays with great intensity and passion. He has a knack for making hustle plays and will fit the HITS culture. — Nate Atkins
Grade: B
Round 7, Pick 258: S Kendall Williamson, Stanford
Culturally, Williamson is a great late-round pick. He will compete in minicamp and possibly training camp on special teams. He’s a high-energy player who will embody the HITS principle, but talent-wise, he seems destined for the practice squad or out of the NFL. — Nate Atkins
Grade: B
