Bears May Have Next Roy Robertson-Harris In Their Sights

The Chicago Bears knew they were going to suffer some losses on defense this offseason. It was inevitable given their financial issues. While Kyle Fuller was perhaps the toughest, one that people shouldn't overlook is Roy Robertson-Harris. The former undrafted free agent developed into a rock solid rotational defensive end for the team. It's sad his 2020 season didn't go as planned due to injury, but he still managed to secure a big payday. He leaves a void behind on that defensive front. While the Bears do have quality depth in that area, it wouldn't be a surprise if they're looking to acquire more bodies for it. Especially given Akiem Hicks and his advancing age. According to Daniel Greenberg of Fansided, the team has met multiple times with Houston defensive end Payton Turner. When looking at him, the Robertson-Harris vibes are inescapable.

Turner is exactly somebody they would covet.

Not only 6'5 and athletic but boasting ridiculous 35-inch arms. Big and long go far in the NFL. What is scary is he's just now tapping into his potential, which is terrifying. In just five games last season, Turner had five sacks and 10.5 tackles for a loss. He was a constant menace. What makes that so crazy is on tape he clearly has work to do. His footwork and pass rush mechanics aren't ready yet. So he was doing that mostly on raw talent. Lance Zierlein of NFL.com compared him to Green Bay Packers pass rusher Preston Smith.

"The tape shows a player who is beginning to understand his own strength and athletic potential. His pass rush plan is limited, but he has a go-to move that opens the door to quarterbacks. Once he gets an advantage, he is an absolute menace to recover against for blockers. His size and play traits will have both odd- and even-front defenses interested in him as a talented three-down starter who is still on the way up."

The thing is Turner is already 270 lbs. Given his frame, the Bears might think they could add another 20 onto it and turn him into a 3-4 defensive end. Somebody with the power to stop the run but the length and burst to also be a legitimate pass rusher. After having so much success with Robertson-Harris, it's possible Turner could be even better. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UL5VMrCzr-Q&ab_channel=JustBombsProductions

Roy Robertson-Harris offered a template to follow

Size, length, and athleticism. Those are the requirements for a defensive end in his 3-4 system. If a player has that and is willing to put in the work? He will have success. Remember that Robertson-Harris started out as an outside linebacker coming out of UTEP. The Bears transitioned him to defensive end and after some patience, he morphed into a quality football player. It's not an exaggeration to say that Turner has a chance to be better. He's a more natural pass rusher who is almost the exact same size with similar strength. Being the next Roy Robertson-Harris might be his floor. So where might the Bears consider taking him? Given his talent and development, he feels like a classic Day 2 pick. Somebody who will go between the 2nd and 3rd rounds.

He might be hard to pass on with that 52nd pick.

As always, it comes down to how the board falls. Chicago has more pressing needs than defensive end. Quarterback is obvious with offensive tackle, wide receiver, and cornerback all high priorities too. However, GM Ryan Pace has said many times he will take the best player available. Turner's talent is such that he might be worth the risk.