When the Chicago Bears selected Darnell Wright in the 2023 NFL Draft, it sparked significant debate. Not only did they pass on the chance to draft Jalen Carter, but there were also questions about whether Wright was the top offensive lineman available at that spot.
Peter Skoronski, with his local ties, was taken right after Wright, while the Pittsburgh Steelers traded up to grab Broderick Jones, and Anton Harrison also went in the first round. Despite these options, it’s become evident that Wright was the best choice among the four.
The Bears should be validated with their selection of Darnell Wright in 2023.
Ryan Poles never seriously considered Peter Skoronski in the 2023 NFL Draft because he viewed him as a guard at the NFL level, while the Bears were aiming for a franchise tackle. Skoronski has played left guard during his first year and a half with the Titans, and with rookie JC Latham now playing left tackle beside him, he’s unlikely to move. Even at guard, Skoronski has faced his own struggles.
Broderick Jones has also dealt with his share of issues. The argument in his favor was that, although he was less polished than Wright, he had higher upside. While that might still hold, the former Georgia lineman has yet to show it in the NFL.
Anton Harrison, meanwhile, has been a weak spot for the Jaguars, contributing to their slide down the standings this season. Paris Johnson has performed well for the Arizona Cardinals, but he was drafted before the Bears had a shot at him.
Looking at the top offensive linemen, it’s clear that Ryan Poles made the right call by selecting Darnell Wright. Reflecting on the Bears’ defense and their offensive line, most fans should feel good that the team prioritized bolstering the line over picking a defensive tackle with that pick.
