Chicago Bears: 2023 Mock draft after first wave of free agency

The Chicago Bears defensive front got gashed up the middle a lot last season. Teams ran right up the middle and the interior part of the line didn’t do anything to help the outside part of the unit. This was a reason why the pass rush didn’t get to the quarterback.

Poles addressed that by signing Andrew Billings. He could add some help there with Calijah Kancey.

At 6-foot-1, 281 pounds, Kancey is a little undersized. However, he makes up for that with his elite strength and crazy athleticism. He has an explosive first step that is better than some wide receivers.

Kancey had a breakout season in 2021, helping the Pitt Panthers win the ACC. He recorded 33 tackles, 13 for loss, and 7 sacks. Showing that he wasn’t a one-hit wonder, he followed that up with 31 tackles, 14.5 for loss, and 7.5 sacks.  He earned first-team All-ACC and third-team All-American. That made him a popular option among scouts.

Watching his explosiveness on film is incredible. He was usually the first one with his hand on the ball carrier. It seems as if he suddenly appears in the opponent’s backfield before the lineman even makes a move.

Additionally, Kancey has great footwork and that is evident by his lateral movement. To be able to explode through the line and then move side-to-side quickly and effectively is a sight to behold.

A lot of teams will be scared away by Kancey’s size. However, his size allows him to create leverage. Also, he is able to get skinny and get through the line.

Whatever team picks Kancey will be fortunate and have a steal. He has all the tools to be a successful player in the NFL.