Remydat 1st Mock Offseason

[remydat]

Chicago Bears Salary Cap Calculator | Over The Cap

Become the fantasy general manager for the Chicago Bears using the OTC salary cap calculator and roster management system

overthecap.com

Ok per OTC, we are at 41m in cap space with 28 players signed. Sounds like a lot of cap space but that is a little over 2m a player for 18 players. So we can't really target huge money guys so here is how I would approach the offseason.

CUTS
Goldman - 6.7 million saved - Not worth his 11m cap hit as really doesn't offer more than Tonga at this point.
Jeremy Atta - 1.9 million saved - With the emergence of Gipson, we really don't need him.
Total Cap Space Left - 49.5 million
Players signed 26

RE-SIGN
Peters - 1.5m - Can come back to mentor and backup Borom and Jenkins.
Horsted - 1m - Should get the nod as the big slot WR/move TE going forward as more dynamic a receiver than Kmet.
DHC - 1.2m - He can come back as a potential starting S as we have to save somewhere
Bush - 1.2m - Another potential starting S that is cheap.
Grant - 2 years 4m - With Cohen's future up in the air, he serves as a good PR and gadget guy on O
Total Cap Space Left - 42.6m
Players Signed 32

FREE AGENTS
28. G LAKEN TOMLINSON, SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
Tomlinson has picked up where he left off in 2020, earning a second consecutive grade above 70.0. He has yet to allow a sack through Week 13 of the 2021 season. Tomlinson has surrendered a quarterback pressure on just 3.8% of pass-rush snaps, the 16th-best mark among guards with at least 200 snaps on the season. The former first-round pick of the Detroit Lions in 2015 may be in for a bigger deal this time around than his early extension signed in 2018 for three years, $16.5 million.
Strengths:
-Value-add in run game, one of highest percentages of positively graded run blocks
-Zone blocking
Weaknesses:
-Pass blocking on true pass sets
-Locking onto targets on the move
Scheme Fit/Role:
STARTING GUARD: Tomlinson has developed into one of the best guards in the league under Kyle Shanahan, so a zone-heavy system is best for him to ensure continued high production. However, Tomlinson has done it all throughout his career and he can play in any scheme.
Recent Injury History:
Since 2017, Tomlinson has played at least 1,000 snaps in every season. He tore an MCL toward the end of 2018 but recovered in time to play every game in 2019.
Contract Projection: Three years, $27 million ($9M per year, $16.5 million total guaranteed)
Bottom Line:
After a slow start to his career, Tomlinson developed into a high-end starter and his most recent work ranks him among the league's best guards. He's a valuable asset in the run game and a strong pass protector who has plenty of good football left as a starting guard.

37. G CONNOR WILLIAMS, DALLAS COWBOYS​

Williams was a top-50 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft and a full-time starter at left guard right out of the gate in Week 1 of his rookie season. He’s gotten better each season, earning career-high marks in pass-blocking (71.4) and run-blocking (71.6) through Week 13 the 2021 season. Williams understandably gets overlooked playing alongside an elite left tackle in Tyron Smith and with the Dallas Cowboys’ other guard, Zack Martin, leading the way in PFF grade among guards since 2020 (94.9). Nevertheless, he’s a solid young player with more room to grow.
Strengths:
-Blocking on the move
-Combo blocks
Weaknesses:
-Blocking players with length/power
-Penalties
Scheme Fit/Role:
STARTING GUARD: While Williams has done most of his damage in a zone-heavy scheme, he's an effective puller and he's capable of executing any block required in a gap-heavy system as well. In pass protection, he could use help against longer players.
Recent Injury History:
After Williams' 2019 season was cut short due to an ACL, he's bounced back to play in every game in 2020 and 2021.
Contract Projection: Three years, $20 million ($6.67M per year, $12.5 million total guaranteed)
Bottom Line:
Another offensive lineman who took a couple of years to get going, Williams stepped up his game with a top-20 grade in 2020 and he's continued that success in 2021. He's a better run blocker than he is a pass-blocker, and he's a mid-tier starting option with scheme diversity.

46. CB STEVEN NELSON, PHILADELPHIA EAGLES​

Steven Nelson was entering the final year of his three-year, $25 million contract signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers and wanted an extension before Week 1 of 2021. With Pittsburgh already exhausting a lot of resources to retain key players, and with edge defender T.J. Watt set to sign the biggest contract for a defensive player in the entire NFL just months later, they decided an outright release would be better for both parties. Nelson didn’t have to leave the state of Pennsylvania, latching on in Philadelphia on a one-year, $2.5 million flier. Operating as the No. 2 alongside Darius Slay, Nelson will look to cash in on a longer-term deal after the season, and he may finally be departing from the state of Pennsylvania.
Strengths:
-Zone coverage
-Rarely beaten deep
-Feisty and physical
Weaknesses:
-Average ball skills
-Gives up too many TDs in the red zone
Scheme Fit/Role:
NO. 2 CORNER: Steven Nelson is a classic overachiever at the cornerback position. A little undersized, he has been a consistently good player in the NFL, making up for some limitations with feisty physicality. He is better in zone coverage, but can hold up in man coverage too and would fit within most NFL defenses. He would be a good option to a team that needs several cornerback additions like the Cardinals or Vikings.
Recent Injury History:
Nelson has been durable in the NFL, suffering little but minor niggles lately.
Contract Projection: Two years, $14 million ($7M per year, $8.5 million total guaranteed)
Bottom Line:
Steven Nelson fits in any scheme as a No. 2 corner who will consistently make some plays and give up some yardage and touchdowns. He is at his best in zone coverage and would be even better with a team that has a legitimate No. 1.

54. WR ODELL BECKHAM JR., LOS ANGELES RAMS​

The Rams' final midseason addition of 2021, Beckham Jr. didn’t take too long to get acclimated to the West Coast. He had had his first 40-plus yard reception since Week 2 of 2020 in just his second game with the team — against the Green Bay Packers in Week 12 — on a beautifully run slant-and-go route. Plays like that are why Beckham Jr. had as many suitors as he did when he was granted his release from the Cleveland Browns, and if he continues to produce as the Rams potentially play deep into the playoffs, a bevy of teams could be lining up again.
Strengths:
– Spectacular ball skills
– Speed and route running
Weaknesses:
– Injuries
– Recent history
Scheme Fit/Role:
NO. 2 RECEIVER: OBJ has elite, No. 1 skills as a receiver, but it has been a long time since we have seen that player for an extended period of time. He has battled through a laundry list of injuries and doesn't seem quite the same explosive athlete he once was. He still possesses a rare blend of ball skills, athleticism and ability to separate and will have suitors trying to uncover the player he once was.
Recent Injury History:
Beckham Jr. dealt with a sprained shoulder throughout 2021 and injured his hip shortly after arriving with the Rams. He has a lengthy injury history over the course of his career.
Contract Projection: One year, $14 million ($12.5M fully guaranteed)
Bottom Line:
OBJ is one of the most talented receivers in the NFL but has been battling injuries for years while enduring constant media attention. There will be teams that want to chase the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but his big-money contract days are going to need to be re-earned with some elite play.

Total Cap Space Left - 12m
Players Signed 36

I debated where to get 2 OL and just 1 but given we will likely have to roll with Jenkins and Borom, I like the idea of a seasoned interior OL with Whitehair moving back to C which the reality is aside from his snapping, he has actually graded better as a center. I also considered re-siging Daniels over WIlliams but per the salary projections, WIlliams was cheaper and graded slightly better which to me offset Daniels being younger. So rather save the 3 or 4 million a year by signing Williams to the projected 6.67m per than the 10m per Daniels is projected to get.

A legit 2nd CB is a most and Nelson is affordable. I would also move EJ to nickel back which we play 70-75% of the time as it covers his weaknesses and allows him to be more involved. He can play S in base defense so still will be on the field a ton but the pass D has improved since Jackson has played more nickel.

Finally at WR, decided to go short term here and spend a bit more for OBJ albeit on a one year deal. Don’t think we can sign a guy to 17m a year long term so that rules out guys like Sutton and Mike Williams. At 14m for one year and the chance to get a ton of targets playing with a guy that likes to throw deep think we can convince OBJ. Other options here at 14m or less are Fuller or Juju who are projected to be looking for 1 year deals in the 8-10m range or DJ Chark who has size and speed albeit coming off injury projected for a longer term deal but at 13.75m.

 

[remydat]

38 - John Metchie III
John Metchie III is a true junior WR for the Alabama Crimson Tide. He’s played with some great WRs during his time at Alabama, including first-round draft picks DeVonta Smith, Jaylen Waddle, and Henry Ruggs III—which has taken away from his target share in the past. This year, Metchie III has seen his target share increase and so has his production with his best performance coming against the Tennessee Volunteers, where Metchie III went for 11 catches 121 yards, and two touchdowns. Metchie III has the size and quickness that allow him to play the Z position or lineup in the slot. Metchie III is an elite athlete that has exceptional start-stop ability and also possesses electric speed that makes him a scoring threat on every play. Uses his speed to run deep overs, which have been a classic in the Alabama offense over the years. Metchie III also has a sturdy frame for a WR that makes him a difficult tackle for defenders in the open field. Metchie III’s explosive athleticism combined with his ability to break tackles in the open field can make him a dynamic playmaker in the NFL. Metchie III tore his ACL in the 2021 SEC Championship Game, which is an injury that could potentially throw a wrench in his draft valuation if teams are shaken by the medical prognosis of his recovery.

Ideal Role: Metchie has the versatility to play both Z and the slot where he can use his speed to stretch the field vertically.

Scheme Fit: A spread system that gets the ball to their players in space. Metchie will thrive in an offense that incorporates him in screens and takes vertical shots down the field.

FILM EVALUATION

Written by Keith Sanchez

Games watched: Miami (2021) Florida (2021) Arkansas (2021) MSST (2021) Tennessee (2021)

Best Game Studied: Tennessee (2021)

Worst Game Studied: Florida (2021)

Route Running: Metchie is an emphatic route-runner that uses head fakes and arm action at the top of routes to mislead defenders. Uses explosive bursts in and out of breaks to get quick separation from defenders. Has the twitch and fluid hips to run every route in the route tree. Can improve on running routes with patience so that timing can match with the QB’s timing.

Hands: Metchie for the most part is a body-catcher and has experienced drops during his time at Alabama. Metchie’s inconsistency catching the ball away from his body is an issue and it seems that he lacks the confidence to pluck the ball out of the air with his hands. This also affects his ability to catch 50/50 balls because he isn't able to get the arm extension and expand his catch radius.

Separation: The ability to get separation from defenders is Metchie’s best trait. He utilities his explosive bursts to quickly get separation from defenders. He also has the ability to quickly accelerate from defenders down the field when running go-routes and posts. His ability to accelerate and decelerate in and out of cuts allows him to uncover from defenders at an extremely high level.

Release Package: Metchie has a very versatile release package that he uses to keep defenders guessing when they are trying to press. That makes him a dangerous weapon when he’s lined up on the line of scrimmage. He can release quickly with the use of his hands if he needs to get into a route quickly or he can release off the line with patience then explode into his route. Metchie has shown the ability to get great releases even in condensed areas. His releases are very detailed and one of the best in the class.

Run After Catch: Metchie’s ability to run after the catch is one of his best traits. Once he has the ball he has the option to use his quickness and speed to make defenders miss in the open field. He has exceptional start/stop ability and change of direction. He can also use his sturdy frame and his strength to break arm tackles. His run after catch ability is what will make him dangerous in the NFL. Has multiple touchdowns this year alone from catching a short pass and using his run after the catch ability to score a TD.

Ball Skills: This is an area that Metchie needs to improve on. On the deep ball specifically, he seemed to locate the ball late in the air, which led to incomplete passes that were open. This is also another part of his game where his catch radius became an issue. His unwillingness to extend his hands away from his body lowers his cach percentage on contested catches. He is more comfortable catching short-to-intermediate throws where he can trap the ball into his body and secure it.

Football IQ: Metchie has shown to have a high IQ when running routes, Understands how to find the openings in zone and sit down where he needs to. He also showed the ability to quickly identify man coverage and accelerate from defenders when running deep routes. For Metchie, the scramble drill is also a great indicator of his football IQ. He has shown the ability to uncover and work to get into the eye sight of the QB.

Versatility: Metchie’s size and athleticism allow him to play multiple positions for the Crimson Tide. His versatility allows for play-callers to get him the ball on short passes such as quick screens, bubble screens, jet sweeps, slants, and also take deep shots to him down the field.

Competitive Toughness: Metchie is a scrappy player and this trait shows up two different ways for him. As a run blocker, he is assertive and enjoys mixing it up with DBs. And secondly, when he has the ball in his hands. Mecthie will lower his shoulder into defenders to fight for extra yardage.

Big Play Ability: Big-play ability is what Metchie brings to the table. His explosiveness and ability to quickly accelerate makes him a big-play threat every play. He has the speed to run past defenders and the short-area quickness to make multiple defenders miss in the open field on the same play.

Prospect Comparison: Tyreek Hill (2016 NFL Draft, Kansas City Chiefs)


71 - Travis Jones
Travis Jones had offers from Boston College, Temple, Rutgers, and Buffalo but chose to stay close to home and play his college football at UConn where he developed into a highly-regarded team leader. Jones arrived on campus at 360 pounds with 30% body fat but has since dropped 30 pounds and reduced his body fat percentage to 13%. While Jones profiles best to a 1-technique/nose tackle role that provides most of his value on running downs, he is a terrific athlete for his size and has found ways to apply consistent pressure on the quarterback despite all of the challenging dynamics to consider within the Huskies defense. Jones is a stout run defender that frequently resets the line of scrimmage and is unselfish in how he takes on blocks, eats space, and keeps the second level clean. He is a strong processor against the run that is rarely out of his fit. As a pass rusher, Jones is an excellent pocket pusher that has active hands and the ability to power through rush angles. There are plenty of reasons to believe that under better circumstances and given his unique physical skill set and body transformation that he will be an even better pro than college player. He should immediately make an NFL run defense better and make the unit more stout.

Ideal Role: One technique/Nose tackle

Scheme Fit: Any

FILM EVALUATION

Written by Joe Marino

Games watched: Indiana (2019), Cincinnati (2019), Clemson (2021), Purdue (2021), Houston (2021)

Best Game Studied: Clemson (2021)

Worst Game Studied: Houston (2021)

First Step Explosiveness: Jones isn’t the type of player that is going to out-quick everyone but he has a good short-area burst for a man of his stature. He fires off the ball with intent, working to take control of reps and reset the line of scrimmage. He is clean when releasing out of his stance.

Flexibility: I’m impressed with Jones’ flexibility and ability to change directions. While he isn’t going to consistently corner blocks, he is loose enough to reduce, flatten, and power through the edges of blocks. He does a great job of playing with extension and redirecting quickly.

Hand Counters: Jones has active hands and he’s deliberate about winning with first contact and he has terrific placement with his hands. He does well to keep his pads clean with heavy strikes that are well-timed. While he isn’t the most sudden with his pass-rush moves, he does work combinations and competes to reduce angles and power through gaps.

Hand Power: Jones has heavy hands that often stun his opponents and enables him to take control of reps. His strikes are firm, which allows him to keep his pads clean and maintain separation from blocks while his own hands are not easily displaced. There is plenty of pop in his punch.

Run Defending: Jones is an outstanding run defender where his power, mass, and processing skills shine. He is a sturdy and unselfish run defender that processes run schemes extremely well. He does well to anchor, maintain his run fit and keep the second-level clean. He holds his own against double teams and single blocks won’t move him.

Effort (Motor): Jones’ motor is always cranked. The UConn coaching staff raves about his work ethic and he is celebrated as a big-time team leader. While the Huskies have plenty to be embarrassed about as a football program, Jones is a bright spot. He battles through the whistle on every play, even when things around him aren’t secure.

Football IQ: I find Jones to be an extremely smart processor against the run. He understands blocking schemes and his role in the defense. He plays with a strong awareness of his skill set and is rarely out of position. There are some occasions where I want him to feel down blocks better but it’s a minor gripe.

Lateral Mobility: Jones’ lateral mobility is highly impressive for his size. He does well to flow down the line of scrimmage and pursuit and I love his ability to change directions and shut down lanes. He won’t be confused as explosive in terms of lateral movement but offers more than most players built like him.

Core/Functional Strength: Jones is a powerful man. He has a stout anchor against the run and is outstanding at pushing the pocket. His hands are firm. Jones has the ability to make an NFL defense tougher and immediately make the run defense better.

Versatility: Jones brings most of his value as an interior player that is dynamic at stopping the run. With that said, his ability to push the pocket gives him value on passing downs and he has the ability to power through the edges of blocks. While he’s clearly an interior A-gap defender that brings most of his value on run downs, he isn’t deficient on passing downs. He found ways to produce consistent pressure in college despite very little talent around him on a team that rarely had a lead to present advantageous opportunities to rush the passer.

Prospect Comparison: Johnathan Hankins (2013 NFL Draft, Oakland Raiders)

 

[remydat]

146 - Brian Asamoah
Brian Asamoah is a redshirt junior prospect from the state of Ohio. Asamoah chose Oklahoma over Arizona, Arizona State, and Cincinnati. Early in Asamoah’s career, he struggled to see playing time due to his lack of understanding of the complex Oklahoma defense. Going into the 2020 season, Asamoah was named the starting inside linebacker, taking over for first-round pick Kenneth Murray. As a starter, Asamoah did not disappoint, becoming an instant impact player for the Sooners. As a prospect, Asamoah shows great athleticism that allows him to be a sideline-to-sideline player showcasing great closing speed to the ball-carrier. Asamoah has the ability to key and diagnose run plays, and on arrival, Asamoah is a violent tackler that thrusts his entire body into the ball-carrier. Asamoah is a good athlete at linebacker that should see early playing time in nickel packages in the NFL.

Ideal Role: Defense with simplified reads where he can read and chase

Scheme Fit: 4-3 WILL linebacker

FILM EVALUATION

Written by Keith Sanchez

Games watched: Florida (2020), Nebraska (2021), Texas (2021), West Virginia (2021), Baylor (2021)

Best Game Studied: Florida (2020)

Worst Game Studied: West Virginia (2021)

Tackling: Asamoah has great closing speed to the ball-carrier, which allows him to cover a lot of ground quickly. On arrival, Asamoah will greet ball-carriers with a big-time hit. Asamoah accelerates through ball-carriers which results in big-time hits. At times, he can overrun plays because of his aggressive nature to get to the ball-carrier as quickly as possible.

Football IQ/Instincts: When playing the run, Asamoah is capable of reading blocks and tracking the ball-carrier to a gap. He uses his natural instincts to maneuver through traffic and defeat blocks while working toward the ball-carrier. Asamoah can use improvement on properly reading misdirection plays. There were multiple examples where the offense used pulling guards and fake jet sweeps to get Asamoah to flow to the wrong gap.

Competitive Toughness: This player is a high-level competitor that doesn't mind getting in opponents’ faces to make his presence felt. On any given play you see him give max effort to work his way to the ball. Asamoah is also a player that celebrates his teammates making plays and encourages them to continue to play hard.

Pass Coverage Ability: Asamoah is an exceptional athlete, which allows him to cover a substantial amount of ground quickly in pass coverage. On play-action plays, Asamoah can play the run, and when he realizes that it is past he can quickly bail out of the play and sink into his zone to disrupt any throwing lanes created by the play-action fake. In man coverage, Asamoah has the athleticism to cover backs out of the backfield effectively.

Run Defending: For Asamoah, run defending is a trait that he flashes high-level plays, but he is inconsistent. Asamoah is capable of properly following his run keys and flowing to the ball-carrier to make the tackle. But, at times, he has eye violations where he reads the wrong keys and it results in him being out of position, compromising the integrity of the defense. Asamoah, at times, will also flow too hard to the direction of the play and give up cut-back opportunities to the ball-carrier. At the next level, Asamoah will need to improve eye discipline and patience in order to become a reliable three-down linebacker.

Block Deconstruction: Asamoah has multiple techniques that he uses to deconstruct blocks. He’s able to utilize is his long arms by quickly shooting them and shedding the offensive lineman off of him to make the tackle. He is able to dip and rip under offensive linemen, avoiding full contact with them to get to the ball-carrier. While Asamoah is effective at deconstructing blocks, he needs to become more consistent. There are many instances where he allows the offensive lineman to get into his chest plate and it's hard for him to disengage with them.

Lateral Mobility: Asamoah is a quick-twitch athlete that has good lateral mobility shown by his ability to quickly flow sideline to sideline. Against the run, Asamoah is able to quickly scrape sideline to sideline effortlessly. Asamoah can also flow one direction and then quickly redirect to another direction.

Flexibility: There are many examples of Asamoah’s flexibility throughout his game. Asamoah is an effective blitzer and this is because he is able to sink his hips and dip and rip under offensive linemen to get pressure on the quarterback. His flexibility also shows in his quick reaction laterally. Asamoah can effortlessly change direction in explosive bursts due to his fluid hips.

Leadership: As the inside linebacker for the Sooner defense, Asamoah is a great communicator. There are numerous examples of him calling the defense and aligning teammates into the proper gap. He is also a high-effort player, so he leads by example in giving high effort throughout the duration of the game.

Versatility: At Oklahoma, Asamoah played primarily the MIKE linebacker position, but he has the athletic traits to play multiple positions in a 4-3 scheme. Early in his NFL career, Asamoah may be best suited as a WILL linebacker where he can play in space and flow freely. He will also excel in situations where he is asked to cover RBs and TEs in one-on-one situations. Asamoah is a natural linebacker but his athleticism will allow for a team to place him in multiple positions.

147 Emil Ekiyor
Emil Ekiyor is a former 4-star prospect out of Indianapolis, Indiana. Ekiyor is a redshirt junior that has been the starting right guard for the Crimson Tide football team for the past two years. Ekiyor is a part of an offensive line unit that has been responsible for opening running lanes for back-to-back 1,000-yard rushers in Najee Harris (2020) and Brian Robinson (2021). As an individual player, Ekiyor has a great frame with good lower-body mass that helps him generate the power needed to move defensive linemen off the line of scrimmage. In pass protection, Ekiyor showcases smooth feet in his ability to mirror defensive linemen’s pass-rush moves. Over his career at Alabama, Ekiyor has notched more than 30 starts, making him an experienced offensive lineman. This experience is on display in how consistent he is in picking up defensive line stunts and blitzers. He is a high IQ player that shows the ability to play both guard positions on the next level. While Ekiyor doesn’t have any stand-out athletic traits, he is an experienced, intelligent offensive lineman that has played against some of the best talent college football has to offer and should become a reliable starter early on in his NFL career.

Ideal Role: As an interior offensive lineman. Can play both LG or RG

Scheme Fit: A zone blocking system

FILM EVALUATION

Written by Keith Sanchez

Competitive Toughness: Ekiyor competes hard as an interior offensive lineman for the Crimson Tide. He works double teams effectively and with urgency to block second-level defenders. And on zone blocking schemes he fights to beat a defender to a spot and give max effort to execute his blocking assignment. I would really like to see Ekiyor impose his will more consistently on defenders to finish them.

Balance: Working double teams to the second level, Ekiyor shows good knee bend that gives him good balance and control. Ekiyor's biggest issue is when he becomes over-extended and his shoulders extend over his toes, which throws him off balance. His movement skills and balance are determined by him being able to keep a good stance and him working within the parameters of his frame.

Anchor Ability: Ekiyor has a stout, well-rounded lower half that serves as his base for power. This allows him to establish a position and really sit on defenders when they are trying to bull rush him. Ekiyor can also reset his feet to anchor whenever he has to, which allows him to reestablish his power.

Lateral Mobility: Ekiyor has the lateral quickness to stay in front of defensive linemen and redirect his body to mirror counter moves. He is also sufficient at moving laterally to pass off stunts and blitzes. Ekiyor only struggles when he opens his base too wide and he isn’t instantly able to generate the power to push off both legs in either direction. He operates best in shorter confined areas where he can operate within his frame.

Power at POA: Ekiyor has a big frame. When he is able to come off the ball, he can generate a lot of power to move defenders off the ball. His power comes from his lower half and when he is able to run his feet after contact to move defenders. His initial contact power is great, but for Ekiyor to truly become a dominant run blocker, he needs to learn how to maintain this power throughout the duration of the block.

Hand Technique: Ekiyor’s timing is really good when it comes to when to shoot his hands. He is able to get an effective punch that initially stops defenders’ momentum. Where Ekiyor struggles is when he has to maintain the block. He latches on and his hands often fall outside of the chest plate. Oftentimes, Ekiyor grabs and holds defenders, which can be an issue in the NFL.

Football IQ: As an interior offensive lineman, he is asked to pass off stunts and pick up blitzers and Ekiyor can do that effectively. He is good at identifying stunts. He is a quick scanner of defenders and is able to correctly identify which defenders to block.

Versatility: Ekiyor has overall body mass but lacks the length to play all five positions on the offensive line. He will be best served as an interior offensive lineman in the NFL. Ekiyor has the foot quickness combined with the power to play both guard positions effectively.

Pass Sets: Ekiyor is able to get depth quickly to beat defenders to a spot. He also has the power to anchor and sit on defenders who are attempting to turn speed to power and bull rush him. When there is too much space and defenders are able to counter move, Ekiyor can get his base overextended which limits his ability to match defenders and redirect effectively.

Flexibility: He has good body posture and can work with a good pad level for most reps. His flexibility reaches its limits whenever Ekiyor plays out too far extended in both the run game and pass game. His flexibility is adequate but he is not an athlete that can effectively operate outside of normal blocking situations.

185 - Obinna Eze
Background:

*Memphis transfer (31 career games – 25 consecutive starts)

*Nigerian native

*Didn’t play varsity football until his senior season due to a rule in Tennessee about foreign exchange students



System

Scheme tendencies: Zone blocking scheme offensive tackle

2021 projected role: Starting left tackle

Pros: A towering offensive tackle prospect, Eze is a shadow that possesses standout length in both his upper and lower halves. Not an overly twitchy mover as a pass protector, but the combination of length and reach on his frame enables him to cancel out rushers before they are able to gain momentum into rush moves. An aggressive down blocker, he has lots of success when asked to cave in the edges of the defense. Eze shows the most athleticism in his game as a run blocker. Most notable on Dart, Counter, and Inside Zone blocking schemes, when utilized as puller or when climbing up to the second level, he displays the agility necessary to thrive in those types of run schemes.

Cons: Still learning how to utilize his assets, Eze’s biggest issues are strength and flexibility, which lead to leverage issues. Playing sky high frequently, a lot of his losses happen early because of his high pad level. Because of his build, he faces challenges with repositioning his body and hands when losing the initial leverage battle at the point of attack. With his length being a gift and a curse, he’s grown accustomed to relying strictly on that at times to win single matchups. Eze’s high pad level severely limits his ability to drive and sustain blocks when making first contact.

 

[remydat]

Total Cap Space Left - 7 million
Players signed 42

So with the draft, I focused on adding another speed WR to go with Beckham and Mooney as Fields loves to go vertical. Metchie also offers a bit more YAC ability than Mooney or Beckham. For the 2nd pick, I went with a replacement for Goldman as the run D sucked in large part because if blockers get on Roquan, he gets swallowed up. So you need that big nose to occupy blockers and Jones and Tonga can split that role to keep both fresh. In keeping with that theme of maximizing Roquan, I went with a LB that has coverage ability as that is the must in the modern NFL but who projects to be better at shedding blocks than Roquan is. Asamoah can develop into a 3 down LB that takes on blocks on early downs but can still stay in on nickel downs with Roquan. Finally my last two picks are to inject some youth and size on the OL as picked up two big development G and T prospects.

I still have 7m left over to fill out 11 rosters spots although would probably restructure a contract or two just to have some cap space going into the season and will probably have to sign a few guys from the practice squad at minimum salaries.

 

[dennehy]

They don't have 35 players under contract. That includes the ghost years.

 

[remydat]

They don't have 35 players under contract. That includes the ghost years.

Yeah I fixed it now. Makes it tighter and probably have to rely on some guy currently on practice squad like Kamara, Snowden, etc. Worse case, you probably forgot signing say Williams to get some more cap or opt for Juju or Fuller over Beckham to save there as Juju and Beckham were projected at 8-10m 1 year deal rather than 14m for Beckham.

 

[FozzyBear]

you forgot to cut/trade whitebeard.

 

[dabears70]

I remember CCS when Whitehair was playing C for us and it was just as brutal as it is now so no change there.


So Williams graded better than Daniels but somehow is also projected to get less on the open market than Daniels? That's odd but these guys that do these projections are almost always wrong anyway.

We do need to make the best signings possible contract wise so i'm good with any 2 of Daniels, Tomlinson, Williams. The only thing is change of players on the O-line always takes a good amount of time for them to learn how to play as one unit.

I'm definitely looking for a better CB than S.Nelson who's been a journeyman CB for a while now.

Can't put the headcase OBJ with our young QB. I'll pay the extra for Sutton or pay DJ Chark the same as i can get OBJ for and bring Goodwin or someone else with speed in to be our 3rd/4th WR. Don't want JuJu, headcase waiting to happen, but do want a legit slot receiver, maybe that can be J.Grant, don't want M.Williams either cause he's too inconsistent.

Other WR's on the cheap i'd look at for slot or 3rd/4th type WR's.
All UFA's
Keelan Cole
Zach Pascal
Byron Pringle
Josh Reynolds
Isaiah McKenzie
M.Valdez Scantling
Russell Gage--He upped his price with the way he's played the last 2 years.


Edit--I made this before seeing your draft post.

Love J.Metchie III

 

[Hutch1975]

Yeah I fixed it now. Makes it tighter and probably have to rely on some guy currently on practice squad like Kamara, Snowden, etc. Worse case, you probably forgot signing say Williams to get some more cap or opt for Juju or Fuller over Beckham to save there as Juju and Beckham were projected at 8-10m 1 year deal rather than 14m for Beckham.

Not bad, but I think O-Line is far more urgent for the Bears, given that Fields has twice been injured in his rookie year.

I'd try to trade down, go from 38 to 42 wit Devner, maybe toss in a pick from 2023 (or give them 71) to gettheir second round pick at 59ish.

My picks in that event would be G Zion Johnson (moving Whitehair back to center) and T Daniel Faalele.

 

[legendxofxlink]

When does Trevathans corpse come off the books?

 

[dennehy]

Yeah I fixed it now. Makes it tighter and probably have to rely on some guy currently on practice squad like Kamara, Snowden, etc. Worse case, you probably forgot signing say Williams to get some more cap or opt for Juju or Fuller over Beckham to save there as Juju and Beckham were projected at 8-10m 1 year deal rather than 14m for Beckham.

I actually have Juju targeted as that buy low vet WR. I can't see how he gets more than about $5mil prove it deal coming off the injury and a terrible season. He had an $8m prove it deal last year and didn't do anything.

 

[ZOMBIE@CTESPN]

Hutch has a more realistic mock offseason then this

 

[Leomaz]

Chicago Bears Salary Cap Calculator | Over The Cap

Become the fantasy general manager for the Chicago Bears using the OTC salary cap calculator and roster management system

overthecap.com

Ok per OTC, we are at 41m in cap space with 28 players signed. Sounds like a lot of cap space but that is a little over 2m a player for 18 players. So we can't really target huge money guys so here is how I would approach the offseason.

CUTS
Goldman - 6.7 million saved - Not worth his 11m cap hit as really doesn't offer more than Tonga at this point.
Jeremy Atta - 1.9 million saved - With the emergence of Gipson, we really don't need him.
Total Cap Space Left - 49.5 million
Players signed 26

RE-SIGN
Peters - 1.5m - Can come back to mentor and backup Borom and Jenkins.
Horsted - 1m - Should get the nod as the big slot WR/move TE going forward as more dynamic a receiver than Kmet.
DHC - 1.2m - He can come back as a potential starting S as we have to save somewhere
Bush - 1.2m - Another potential starting S that is cheap.
Grant - 2 years 4m - With Cohen's future up in the air, he serves as a good PR and gadget guy on O
Total Cap Space Left - 42.6m
Players Signed 32

FREE AGENTS
28. G LAKEN TOMLINSON, SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
Tomlinson has picked up where he left off in 2020, earning a second consecutive grade above 70.0. He has yet to allow a sack through Week 13 of the 2021 season. Tomlinson has surrendered a quarterback pressure on just 3.8% of pass-rush snaps, the 16th-best mark among guards with at least 200 snaps on the season. The former first-round pick of the Detroit Lions in 2015 may be in for a bigger deal this time around than his early extension signed in 2018 for three years, $16.5 million.
Strengths:
-Value-add in run game, one of highest percentages of positively graded run blocks
-Zone blocking
Weaknesses:
-Pass blocking on true pass sets
-Locking onto targets on the move
Scheme Fit/Role:
STARTING GUARD: Tomlinson has developed into one of the best guards in the league under Kyle Shanahan, so a zone-heavy system is best for him to ensure continued high production. However, Tomlinson has done it all throughout his career and he can play in any scheme.
Recent Injury History:
Since 2017, Tomlinson has played at least 1,000 snaps in every season. He tore an MCL toward the end of 2018 but recovered in time to play every game in 2019.
Contract Projection: Three years, $27 million ($9M per year, $16.5 million total guaranteed)
Bottom Line:
After a slow start to his career, Tomlinson developed into a high-end starter and his most recent work ranks him among the league's best guards. He's a valuable asset in the run game and a strong pass protector who has plenty of good football left as a starting guard.

37. G CONNOR WILLIAMS, DALLAS COWBOYS​

Williams was a top-50 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft and a full-time starter at left guard right out of the gate in Week 1 of his rookie season. He’s gotten better each season, earning career-high marks in pass-blocking (71.4) and run-blocking (71.6) through Week 13 the 2021 season. Williams understandably gets overlooked playing alongside an elite left tackle in Tyron Smith and with the Dallas Cowboys’ other guard, Zack Martin, leading the way in PFF grade among guards since 2020 (94.9). Nevertheless, he’s a solid young player with more room to grow.
Strengths:
-Blocking on the move
-Combo blocks
Weaknesses:
-Blocking players with length/power
-Penalties
Scheme Fit/Role:
STARTING GUARD: While Williams has done most of his damage in a zone-heavy scheme, he's an effective puller and he's capable of executing any block required in a gap-heavy system as well. In pass protection, he could use help against longer players.
Recent Injury History:
After Williams' 2019 season was cut short due to an ACL, he's bounced back to play in every game in 2020 and 2021.
Contract Projection: Three years, $20 million ($6.67M per year, $12.5 million total guaranteed)
Bottom Line:
Another offensive lineman who took a couple of years to get going, Williams stepped up his game with a top-20 grade in 2020 and he's continued that success in 2021. He's a better run blocker than he is a pass-blocker, and he's a mid-tier starting option with scheme diversity.

46. CB STEVEN NELSON, PHILADELPHIA EAGLES​

Steven Nelson was entering the final year of his three-year, $25 million contract signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers and wanted an extension before Week 1 of 2021. With Pittsburgh already exhausting a lot of resources to retain key players, and with edge defender T.J. Watt set to sign the biggest contract for a defensive player in the entire NFL just months later, they decided an outright release would be better for both parties. Nelson didn’t have to leave the state of Pennsylvania, latching on in Philadelphia on a one-year, $2.5 million flier. Operating as the No. 2 alongside Darius Slay, Nelson will look to cash in on a longer-term deal after the season, and he may finally be departing from the state of Pennsylvania.
Strengths:
-Zone coverage
-Rarely beaten deep
-Feisty and physical
Weaknesses:
-Average ball skills
-Gives up too many TDs in the red zone
Scheme Fit/Role:
NO. 2 CORNER: Steven Nelson is a classic overachiever at the cornerback position. A little undersized, he has been a consistently good player in the NFL, making up for some limitations with feisty physicality. He is better in zone coverage, but can hold up in man coverage too and would fit within most NFL defenses. He would be a good option to a team that needs several cornerback additions like the Cardinals or Vikings.
Recent Injury History:
Nelson has been durable in the NFL, suffering little but minor niggles lately.
Contract Projection: Two years, $14 million ($7M per year, $8.5 million total guaranteed)
Bottom Line:
Steven Nelson fits in any scheme as a No. 2 corner who will consistently make some plays and give up some yardage and touchdowns. He is at his best in zone coverage and would be even better with a team that has a legitimate No. 1.

54. WR ODELL BECKHAM JR., LOS ANGELES RAMS​

The Rams' final midseason addition of 2021, Beckham Jr. didn’t take too long to get acclimated to the West Coast. He had had his first 40-plus yard reception since Week 2 of 2020 in just his second game with the team — against the Green Bay Packers in Week 12 — on a beautifully run slant-and-go route. Plays like that are why Beckham Jr. had as many suitors as he did when he was granted his release from the Cleveland Browns, and if he continues to produce as the Rams potentially play deep into the playoffs, a bevy of teams could be lining up again.
Strengths:
– Spectacular ball skills
– Speed and route running
Weaknesses:
– Injuries
– Recent history
Scheme Fit/Role:
NO. 2 RECEIVER: OBJ has elite, No. 1 skills as a receiver, but it has been a long time since we have seen that player for an extended period of time. He has battled through a laundry list of injuries and doesn't seem quite the same explosive athlete he once was. He still possesses a rare blend of ball skills, athleticism and ability to separate and will have suitors trying to uncover the player he once was.
Recent Injury History:
Beckham Jr. dealt with a sprained shoulder throughout 2021 and injured his hip shortly after arriving with the Rams. He has a lengthy injury history over the course of his career.
Contract Projection: One year, $14 million ($12.5M fully guaranteed)
Bottom Line:
OBJ is one of the most talented receivers in the NFL but has been battling injuries for years while enduring constant media attention. There will be teams that want to chase the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but his big-money contract days are going to need to be re-earned with some elite play.

Total Cap Space Left - 12m
Players Signed 36

I debated where to get 2 OL and just 1 but given we will likely have to roll with Jenkins and Borom, I like the idea of a seasoned interior OL with Whitehair moving back to C which the reality is aside from his snapping, he has actually graded better as a center. I also considered re-siging Daniels over WIlliams but per the salary projections, WIlliams was cheaper and graded slightly better which to me offset Daniels being younger. So rather save the 3 or 4 million a year by signing Williams to the projected 6.67m per than the 10m per Daniels is projected to get.

A legit 2nd CB is a most and Nelson is affordable. I would also move EJ to nickel back which we play 70-75% of the time as it covers his weaknesses and allows him to be more involved. He can play S in base defense so still will be on the field a ton but the pass D has improved since Jackson has played more nickel.

Finally at WR, decided to go short term here and spend a bit more for OBJ albeit on a one year deal. Don’t think we can sign a guy to 17m a year long term so that rules out guys like Sutton and Mike Williams. At 14m for one year and the chance to get a ton of targets playing with a guy that likes to throw deep think we can convince OBJ. Other options here at 14m or less are Fuller or Juju who are projected to be looking for 1 year deals in the 8-10m range or DJ Chark who has size and speed albeit coming off injury projected for a longer term deal but at 13.75m.

I believe Peters has said he is re-retiring

 

[BaBaBlacksheep]

Fire Pace/Nagy.

All I care about right now.

 

[gallagher]

What I like is attacking our biggest weakness, OL, in free agency. Spend big on big guys that have proven to be good at their job. the quarterback deserves it.

I also like using our best draft choice on a weapon for Fields. I think Fields would do best if our offense was filled with track stars. But I do not think ODB is a good choice for our team. We are going to struggle next year again unless we somehow find a coach with a magic wand that can make our offense work as a unit. Beckham will want to be with a winner.

 

[Canth]

I'm not sure that they will be able to spend that much in FA on just a couple of guys due to all the holes to fill.

I don't see Peters signing with the Bears again. As mentioned above, he probably retires. He wanted a playoff run and he sure as heck didn't get that this year.

I really don't like the idea of signing OBJ. The dude is a head case and he has never really come close to putting up the numbers he did in his first 3 years in the league. I wouldn't want him anywhere near Fields.

As young as Daniels is, I would like to see if they can re-sign him. I'm of the mind you find a way to keep him and move on from Whitehair. Not sure if that is actually possible. Then, I would look to bring in an FA center. You can find serviceable guard depth in a lot of different ways - cheaper FA and in the draft. IMO, they need a center than can snap, help with the protection stuff, and actually block for Fields.

 

[Bearly]

Remi for GM.
Who's your HC and coordinators?

 

[dennehy]

Chances are high that Ifedi will be the #3 OT. He's under contract and it's cheap.

 

[Chicagosports89]

Chances are high that Ifedi will be the #3 OT. He's under contract and it's cheap.

Ifedi signed a 1 yr contract before this season

 

[Canth]

Chances are high that Ifedi will be the #3 OT. He's under contract and it's cheap.

I thought it was just void years. So, he is not actually under contract for 2022.