2021 NFL Mock Draft 3.0: Miami Dolphins trade back again
By Dakota Cox
2021 NFL Mock Draft 3.0
20. Chicago Bears: Alijah Vera-Tucker, OL, USC
Chicago needs an upgrade at quarterback, but they are in no position to get one in the 2021 NFL Draft. It appears that they will have to stick with Andy Dalton this year unless a quarterback comes up in a trade.
Dalton might be better than Mitchell Trubisky, but he is certainly less mobile. The lack of mobility is a concern with their scheme, so it might come with some personnel shifts in the draft. That includes adding offensive linemen to help protect Dalton.
Alijah Vera-Tucker has played both guard and tackle. While he was a serviceable tackle, he was an elite guard. His NFL fit will mostly depend on who drafts him, but his versatility adds value. Depending on what else Chicago does over the next few years, Vera-Tucker’s position could change over time.
Chicago is waisting an elite defense, but there is nothing they can do with one pick to solve all of their problems. Even if they reach on a receiver or quarterback, they will still be far behind the Green Bay Packers in the NFC North. The best they can do is set themselves up to win in the future, and Alijah Vera-Tucker helps keep your options open. That’s why I have him landing in Chicago in this 2021 NFL mock draft.