The Chicago Bears continue to add to the defensive line by adding Zacch Pickens.
Poles has emphasized on a number of occasions how he wants to have athletic players in all areas, including some spots you might not think to require it.
After already drafting an athletic defensive tackle earlier, Poles does it again with Zacch Pickens.
Pickens originally played fullback in addition to defensive tackle. That gives him a quickness you don’t normally see in a tackle. He is also explosive and can get past linemen that way.
Pickens has good footwork and strong hands. He is quickly able to shed blockers and get to the ball carrier. Additionally, he has a high football IQ. He is able to recognize and counter blocking schemes quickly.
Pickens is 6-foot-4 and weighs 291 pounds. Also, he has an arm length of nearly 35 inches. He is able to keep blockers at bay with his arms and will bat a lot of passes with that length.
Adding Pickens to the defensive line gives the unit more depth. The line struggled last season and would now improve. Having multiple young, athletic linemen to keep pounding and making offensive linemen expend more energy helps to wear them down. Furthermore, having defensive tackles receive attention helps the pass rush. Pickens could be a productive asset for the Chicago Bears.