So it’s best to keep them together for now.Īfter the selections of Dexter and Pickens, Poles purposely mentioned Justin Jones and Andrew Billings. And the Bears doubled down on defensive tackle over addressing other positions because of what they believe Pickens can bring to their defensive line.

Where they fit in 2023: Dexter is the higher pick, but in most years, the 64th pick is a second-rounder. I have great respect for him and his journey.” Gervon Dexter Sr., DT, Florida Round 2, 53rd pick Zacch Pickens, DT, South Carolina So, I think his ability to withstand all that and gain trust in our staff and become a guy who was obviously dominant on the field but also really grew in who he was and how he affected his teammates. But he’s really likable and a guy who brings really good energy into the building. “He’s a really well-liked guy inside of the locker room,” Heupel said. The NCAA later charged the school with 18 major rules violations. Wright became one for Tennessee coach Josh Heupel after he replaced Jeremy Pruitt, who was fired in January 2021 after an investigation into the program for recruiting violations. Not all first-round picks become team leaders, but you’d certainly like them to be one, if possible. It’s a piece that I think just meshes well with the philosophy of what we’re trying to build here.” He just fits the mold of what we’re trying to be, which is a big, physical offense up front. He’s shown a lot of resilience, too, throughout his career. “With Darnell, he fits the prototype of what we’re looking for,” said Trey Koziol, the Bears’ co-director of player personnel. If all goes well, you’re not only looking at a long-term staple up front for the Bears but one who can play at an All-Pro/Pro Bowl level. And then it’s everything the Bears said about him. Where he fits in the long term: The Bears’ pre-draft evaluation of Wright was intense - literally. The Bears and Darnell Wright: A 5-part look at how a team falls in love with a draft prospect

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