Chicago Bears 2023 Mock Draft: Trades solidify the whole roster

Cole Kmet had a good season in 2022. He was the leading receiver for the Chicago Bears. Hopefully, that is the springboard to even better seasons in Chicago.

There wasn’t much behind Kmet, however. The other three tight ends on the roster combined for 6 catches and 52 yards. That just isn’t enough for opponents to treat honestly.

Payne Durham can help improve the unit.

Durham gives Fields another big receiver to target. That comes in especially handy in the red zone. If Durham plays well the Bears could use him together with Kmet. Then Fields has two big athletic targets to go to in the end zone. Opposing defenses have to pick one or the other. Add in some dependable wide receivers and Fields has a lot of good red zone options.

There isn’t one thing that Durham is elite in. He is, however, solid in a number of areas so he is a well-rounded player. Additionally, he is a good blocker so he’ll see more time because of that. He is also a tough player with a high motor.

Durham has progressed very nicely considering he didn’t play high school football until his senior year. In total, he only had 22 catches. The fact that he is now among the top tight end prospects in this draft shows how hard he works to improve.

Durham would be a fine backup and solidify the tight ends unit.