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With the No. 186 overall pick, the Chicago Bears selected San Diego State OL Zachary Thomas.
Thomas tested very well at the Combine, finishing with elite numbers in agility drills and ran a sub-5.0 40-yard dash. The three-year starter played predominantly at left tackle for the Aztecs, but he projects best as a guard at the next level.
Thomas is a coordinated athlete who can block on the move very well, showcasing good acceleration climbing to the second level and mobility in pass protection. He has shown serious promise in terms of his pad level, keeping his pads low and his weight underneath him at the point of attack. He also plays with a mean streak and a willingness to drive defenders into the dirt, which should fit into the mentality the Bears are looking to instill along their offensive line.
I took to Twitter to break down Thomas’ game and how he fits into Chicago’s system:
THREAD: The #Bears get more OL depth with San Diego State’s Zachary Thomas.
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) April 30, 2022
I think he’s a fantastic scheme fit and good depth in Round 6.
Thomas has two big traits the #Bears will love: athleticism and nastiness.
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) April 30, 2022
He’s quick out of his stance with good mobility, and he’s a powerful blocker who aims to pummel the opposition. pic.twitter.com/JPcEzc33A1
Thomas projects incredibly well in a wide-zone scheme with his quickness and raw power.
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) April 30, 2022
With his raw force, you give him space to build up momentum and he’ll knock guys over. #Bears pic.twitter.com/mAyHnW6ugx
Thomas played offensive tackle in college, but he’s probably more of a guard in the NFL.
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) April 30, 2022
That said, he’ll offer plenty of versatility and value as a backup for the #Bears. pic.twitter.com/wDif2AnUsk
The #Bears use another selection on a athletic and nasty OL, and I love Zachary Thomas as depth.
— Jacob Infante (@jacobinfante24) April 30, 2022
He’s versatile, quick and mean. Processing and hand placement can still improve, but the physical tools are definitely there.
Give our podcast about Thomas a listen here!
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