From now until the 2023 NFL Draft begins, the staff at CHGO Sports will be “Making The Case” for prospects the Chicago Bears should consider drafting.
If general manager Ryan Poles adds an edge rusher in the draft to give the defense a player that can rush the quarterback, one prospect the Bears should consider is Texas Tech edge rusher, Tyree Wilson.
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What immediately stands out about Wilson when watching his tape is the power he generates on his pass rush. Regardless if he is lined up in a 2-point stance or has his hand in the dirt, Wilson has a tendency to push back the pocket and overpower offensive linemen.
It's almost hilarious the power that Tyree Wilson can generate – look at him vs. the RG on this play pic.twitter.com/h9Gq2Z6FY9
At 6-foot-6, 275 pounds, Wilson knows how to use his frame, especially when he utilizes his long-arm move. I’m curious to see what his official measurements will be, but he should have the advantage in most matchups when it comes to arm length.
#1 Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech (5/5)
Pros: Absolutely massive at 6'6, 275 pounds, his 22.6% pass-rush win percentage was second best in the Big 12, brings terrific athleticism and versatility on the defensive line
For some reason, certain opponents thought it would be a good idea to isolate a tight end on Wilson. That matchup heavily leaned in Wilson’s favor due to his strength and freakish length.
Wilson has great physical attributes, but he does need to work on his overall game plan as a pass rusher. His bull rush and long arm are his go-to’s, but developing a counter move will expand his ways to get to the quarterback.
Another area that needs improvement is his get-off. There were snaps in the game against North Carolina State this past season and Mississippi State in 2021 when Wilson was simply late. Once he becomes more consistent at anticipating the snap — and with his power and frame — he is going to be an even more impactful pass rusher.
Why Draft Tyree Wilson?
The Bears finished with only 20 total sacks in 2022. Rookie safety Jaquan Brisker led the team with four, and the defensive line accounted for just 10.5.
For this Bears defense to make some much-needed improvements, the pass rush needs to show up and impact games in 2023. Wilson can help make that happen and be a player for Alan Williams’ defense that can win one-on-one matchups.
Wilson is projected to go in the first round, potentially as a top-five pick. If the Bears trade out of the No. 1 overall pick, Wilson could be an option for Chicago if Georgia’s Jalen Carter and Alabama’s Will Anderson are already off the board.
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