Chicago Bears 2023 Mock Draft: Wheeling and dealing in full effect

Chicago Bears pick Cody Mauch, OL, North Dakota State

Poles continues to get Fields some help by finding some protection. Cody Mauch is exactly the type of lineman Poles wants on his team. He has a high motor, constantly hustling to his assignments. Additionally, he has a mauler mentality. This is what Poles looks for in linemen.

Poles had a great find in the FCS with Braxton Jones. He could have another one in Mauch. North Dakota State has done a good job of sending quality offensive linemen to the NFL. The school has produced Billy Turner, Joe Haeg, Dillon Radunz, and most recently, Cordell Volson, who have had good careers.

In addition to his 6-foot-6, 303-pound frame, Mauch is extremely athletic. That comes from being a converted tight end. He has great bend and has no problem moving his body, moving well either laterally or forward. He is explosive and gains ground upfield quickly.

Mauch has great raw power. He surprises defenders with his two-handed punch. He uses good leverage and momentum to move defenders out of the way, opening up holes in the running game.

In pass protection, Mauch uses his length to wall off pass rushers. This is where his athleticism really helps. He uses his quick feet and opens up his hips fast so he stays square.

With Jones at left tackle, Mauch can be the right tackle. That would give the Bears good, young, and athletic bookends on the line. Mauch helps open holes for the running game and can give Fields the much-needed pass protection he’s lacked so far.