Chicago Bears 2016 First Round Draft Projections

Sep 19, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive lineman Ronnie Stanley (78) prepares to block Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets linebacker Tyler Marcordes (35) at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports

OT Ronnie Stanley-Notre Dame

When the Bears picked up Jermon Bushrod from the New Orlean Saints in 2013, he made a huge impact in keeping quarterback Jay Cutler off his back. However due to back and shoulder problems, Bushrod has been less than productive in 2014. While Charles Leno Jr. has stepped in nicely, they will need a dynamic alternate. Stanley has a girthy frame, long arms and sets up quickly to protect the edge, mirroring speed pass rushers. He is a big tackle weighing in at 315 pounds and stands at 6-6”.

Stanley shows that he has good lateral agility and balance. He has heavy hands, which allows him to catch and control opponents who rush with speed. He drives defenders off the ball in short-yardage situations and has effective blocking skills. His additional upside consists of good awareness of his surroundings as he swivels his head looking for defenders on the chase. Stanley is not overly aggressive but is patient to avoid mistakes. He does have a tendency to play to high on the chest.  Some say he may struggle at first in the NFL, but I think he will adjust as quickly as fellow Duck Kyle Long did.

Next: Time For That Lethal Linebacker