In every draft, there are always selections that leave fans puzzled. This was the case for the Detroit Lions in 2023 when they chose Jahmyr Gibbs and Jack Campbell in the first round. However, both players have since become key contributors to a Super Bowl-contending team. The takeaway? Expect the unexpected from the Chicago Bears in this year’s draft—especially in the first round. One under-the-radar prospect to watch is Aireontae Ersery.
Dark Horse Target for the Bears in the First Round-Aireontae Ersery
Career at Minnesota
Aireontae Ersery joined the Minnesota Golden Gophers and steadily developed into a dominant left tackle. After limited playing time early in his career, Ersery broke out in his junior year starting 12 games and logging 775 snaps. He followed that up by starting all 13 games the next season surrendering just two sacks, four hits, and nine hurries. Widely regarded as one of the top offensive tackles in college football, Ersery’s draft stock is expected to rise significantly as the NFL Combine and draft draw closer.
One standout moment in Ersery’s college career was his impressive performance against Penn State, where he effectively neutralized projected top-10 pick Abdul Carter. This mirrors how Darnell Wright’s strong showing against Will Anderson Jr. helped convince the Bears to select him tenth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. The same spot the Bears are in this draft.
Every 1-1 rep for Aireontae Ersery vs Abdul Carter.
Headlining matchup that teams had circled in W13. pic.twitter.com/BaL9AMD4r1
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) November 24, 2024
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Pros:
- Imposing frame at 6’6″ and 330 pounds, with ideal hand placement to handle edge rushers
- Exceptional mechanics and run-blocking ability
- Versatile experience at both tackle positions
- Light on his feet and explosive first step
- Top zone-blocker in college football
- High football IQ and consistency on the field
Cons:
- Pass protection concerns
- Struggles with faster pass rushers
- Tends to have uneven weight distribution, often caught leaning on his toes
- Will need time to adjust to NFL speed
Rationale Behind Drafting Aireontae Ersery
Aireontae Ersery is a dark horse for a reason. He’ll likely be a serious candidate for the Bears to draft if Will Campbell and Kelvin Banks Jr. are gone and if they want to draft an offensive lineman. That said, there is a possibility Ryan Poles and Co. fall in love with Ersery and push him up their draft boards. He has all the makings of a franchise left tackle and although the Bears have Braxton Jones, it might be too good to pass up.
Ideally, Chicago could trade down into the mid-to-late first round to select Ersery. Regardless, if the Bears believe he can develop into an elite offensive tackle they shouldn’t hesitate to draft him.
A team can never have too many first-round picks on the offensive line. Just look at the Lions—they’ve invested in LT Taylor Decker, C Frank Ragnow, and RT Penei Sewell, resulting in what is arguably the best offensive line in the NFL.
Ersery might not be a flashy pick that excites fans, but he has the potential to develop into a top-tier left tackle. Knowing how the Bears are, don’t be surprised if they take an unexpected route in the draft.
NFL Player Comparison: Christian Darrisaw
Main Image: Daniel Bartel – USA Today Sports
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