Chicago Bears land former first round selection
The Chicago Bears added some much-needed depth to their offensive line on Wednesday by claiming offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood from the Las Vegas Raiders. Leatherwood was released by the Raiders on Tuesday as part of their final round of roster cuts. The former Alabama standout was selected by Las Vegas with the No. 17 overall […]
The Chicago Bears added some much-needed depth to their offensive line on Wednesday by claiming offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood from the Las Vegas Raiders.
Leatherwood was released by the Raiders on Tuesday as part of their final round of roster cuts.
The former Alabama standout was selected by Las Vegas with the No. 17 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Leatherwood was drafted by the previous Raiders regime and he clearly doesn't fit into Las Vegas' plans moving forward.
Leatherwood didn't play very well at offensive tackle last season. In fact, his Pro Football Focus grade of 45 was the worst among tackles last season.
The Bears will almost certainly play Leatherwood at guard, where he's a much better fit.
Chicago must believe that they turn Leatherwood's career around because they're taking on his contract by claiming him. The Bears will owe Leatherwood at least $5.9 million in guaranteed money.
I like this move by the Bears. Leatherwood obviously has talent or he wouldn't have been drafted in the first round.
This could be a case where a player just needs a change of scenery. It's a low-risk, high-reward move by Chicago general manager Ryan Poles, which is absolutely perfect for a Bears team in the middle of a massive rebuild.
Featured image via David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
