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

Owen Pappoe, LB, Auburn

Poles did a great job of overhauling the linebackers unit. In addition to adding Edmunds, he also added T.J. Edwards, another one of the top linebackers in the league and an integral member of the Philadelphia Eagles’ elite defense.

Poles continues to improve the unit by adding Owen Pappoe.

With Edmunds and Edwards, the Bears have two very athletic linebackers who could handle the outside linebacker spots (Edmunds weakside and Edwards strong side).

That would leave the second-year man Jack Sanborn, who became a fan favorite before an injury cut down his season, to battle for the middle with Pappoe. The loser gives the Bears an excellent backup.

Pappoe was the leader of the Auburn defense and does a great job of communicating on-field. Playing from the middle, he has the range to go sideline-to-sideline. Additionally, he has the speed to chase down the ball carrier from the backside.

Pappoe has long arms which help him shed blockers. He relies more on his quickness and athleticism than on his strength to get past linemen. He has the talent to be a playmaker and will make Bears fans happy.