LEFT TO ADDRESS: Could Offensive Tackle be the Chicago Bears 1st Round Priority? | CHGO Bears
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The CHGO Bears podcast dives deep into the 2026 NFL Draft, focusing on the Chicago Bears' potential first-round strategy, particularly the debate over selecting an offensive tackle—especially a left tackle—versus prioritizing defense. Hosts Greg Braggs and Adam Hogue explore mock drafts, player evaluations, and team philosophy, with Braggs advocating for a left tackle like Caden Proctor or Caleb Lomu to secure Ben Johnson’s offensive scheme. The discussion highlights the Bears’ need for long-term offensive line stability, especially with the increasing use of play-action passes under Johnson. Meanwhile, Dave Wanstead, the guest, shares insights on defensive line philosophy, emphasizing playmakers over size, and reflects on his media career transition. The episode also features a lively banter about oranges, a sponsorship from Xfinity, and a special live Q&A with draft expert Fran Duffy, who joins the Discord at 2:30 PM. The hosts debate the value of best-player-available versus need-based drafting, with strong support for taking a top-tier offensive tackle if available at pick 25.
The Bears may prioritize a left tackle in the first round to secure Ben Johnson’s play-action offense.
Caden Proctor and Caleb Lomu are top left tackle prospects with high upside and versatility.
Akeem Mesidor is a high-risk, high-reward defensive end with elite playmaking ability despite injury history.
The Bears’ defensive line philosophy favors disruptive playmakers over oversized, less agile pass rushers.
Draft strategy should focus on best player available, especially when addressing long-term offensive needs.
Oranges, Energy, and Draft Hype
The episode opens with a humorous segment about the hosts' orange obsession, particularly Stephen's giant orange and Greg's habit of eating the peel. This lighthearted moment sets the tone before diving into the draft discussion.
Mock Draft 3.0 and the Left Tackle Debate
“If the Bears are trying to win a Super Bowl in the next four years, that's all I'm worried about. You draft Akeem Mesidor because you're trying to win now.”
Akeem Mesidor: Risk, Reward, and Playmaking
“He's not going to get hung up on a one-on-one block. They were the guys that I looked for.”
Dave Wanstead on Defensive Philosophy and Draft Strategy
“I always lean toward the playmakers as compared to the bigger oversized guy. It's just a philosophy thing.”
The Case for Left Tackle in the Modern NFL
The hosts debate the evolving importance of the left tackle position, especially in play-action-heavy offenses. They argue that with Ben Johnson’s system, a strong left tackle is non-negotiable.
“If the Bears are trying to win a Super Bowl in the next four years, that's all I'm worried about. You draft Akeem Mesidor because you're trying to win now.”
“I always lean toward the playmakers as compared to the bigger oversized guy. It's just a philosophy thing.”
“He's not going to get hung up on a one-on-one block. They were the guys that I looked for.”
Hosts
Guests
Chicago Bears
organization
CHGO Bears
organization
Dave Wanstead
person
Fran Duffy
person
Greg Braggs
person
Adam Hogue
person
Akeem Mesidor
person
Ben Johnson
person
Stephen Nicholas
person
Caden Proctor
person
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