The Chicago Bears waited a long time before addressing the defense in the NFL draft. Their first three picks went to the offense: Colston Loveland, Luther Burden, and Ozzy Trapilo. GM Ryan Poles and head coach Ben Johnson made their intentions clear. Investing in Caleb Williams was the goal. Still, they couldn’t ignore Dennis Allen’s defense forever. So, at the end of the 2nd round, they looked to give their defensive line a significant boost by grabbing Texas A&M defensive tackle Shemar Turner.
It isn’t hard to understand his interest. Turner showed in 2023 that he has significant prowess as a disruptor, both inside and off the edge. He fell off last year due largely to a defensive scheme shift and a persistent leg injury that he played through. Some experts felt he could’ve gone in the 1st round if circumstances had been better. Apparently, that includes people inside the NFL itself. Bob McGinn of Go Long TD got some interesting details from league scouts on what Turner can be.
“Liked him,” one scout said. “Had some cool traits. He plays hard. Tough and physical. He’s strong. He can run. He’ll knock the shit out of you. He’s a good point player in terms of strength and position and leverage. He’s got explosive power. Plays on his feet. Good against the double. Got good range on loops and stunts. You would like a little bit more consistent pass rush and overall production for a guy with his talent level. He leaves you wanting a little bit more. He’s a strong second-round pick. Played hurt all year.”
Shemar Turner fits a role Allen covets.
One thing the Bears defensive coordinator became known for in New Orleans was having at least one defensive lineman who could move inside or outside. It would create lots of mismatches and cause confusion. David Onyemata filled that role with the Saints. While most of his snaps in a game were at defensive tackle, he’d always find six or seven per week shifting outside to end. It certainly worked. He averaged at least 31 pressures in six seasons with the team. Shemar Turner has a higher ceiling than Onyemata did. That should tell you why the Bears were so excited to get him when they did. If Allen deploys him like he was in 2023, the young defensive lineman will stress offensive lines to no end.
