Bears claim former first-round pick Alex Leatherwood

The Chicago Bears’ 53-man roster is about to undergo significant changes. General manager Ryan Poles claimed six players off waivers Wednesday, headlined by former 2021 first-round pick, Alex Leatherwood.

Leatherwood began his rookie season out of position at right tackle before kicking inside to guard for the final 13 games. Whether the Bears plan on playing him at guard or tackle — where he starred under Nick Saban at Alabama — is yet to be seen.

The five players Chicago claimed are:

OL Alex Leatherwood
DB Josh Blackwell
DE Kingsley Jonathan
DT Armon Watts
TE Trevon Wesco
LB Sterling Weatherford

Corresponding roster moves will be announced by the Chicago Bears soon.

Adding Alex Leatherwood to an offensive line that’s without top-tier talent is a step in the right direction for the Bears. Despite a rookie season that was less than ideal, Leatherwood’s potential to become a long-term NFL starter remains high. He was the 17th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.