Plenty of talent remains for the Chicago Bears to find starters on Day 2 of NFL Draft

The first round of the 2023 NFL Draft is in the books, and the Chicago Bears accomplished one of their most significant objectives with the selection of offensive tackle Darnell Wright at No. 10 overall. But their job isn’t done. Starters must be added on Day 2.

The Bears traded down one spot with the Philadelphia Eagles and added a 2024 fourth-round pick before selecting Wright, which drew some criticism in instant reactions. Chicago could’ve selected DL Jalen Carter, who was viewed by many as the top all-around player in the entire draft. Instead, GM Ryan Poles opted for the right tackle his offensive line desperately needed.

Wright is a plug-and-play starter who offers a blend of experience, a nasty demeanor, and above-average athletic ability.

The good news for the Bears is that plenty of quality defensive linemen are still on the board as Day 2 gets underway. In fact, several starting-caliber prospects will be within striking distance when the Chicago Bears pick.

Plenty of talent remains on Day 2 of the 2023 NFL Draft

The Bears have two selections in the second round, No.s 53 and 61 overall, and No. 64 overall (third round).

Here are some of the top players (non-quarterbacks) available as Day 2 of the 2023 NFL Draft begins.

Keeanu Benton, DL, Wisconsin
Adetomiwa Adebawore, DL, Northwestern
Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
John Michael Schmitz, C, Minnesota
Derrick Hall, Edge, Auburn
Tuli Tuipulotu, Edge, USC
Joe Tippmann, C, Wisconsin
Matthew Bergeron, OT, Syracuse
Luke Musgrave, TE, Oregon State
Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee
Brian Branch, DB, Alabama
Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas
BJ Ojulari, Edge, LSU
Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
Keion White, Edge, Georgia Tech
Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia
O’Cyrus Torrence, iOL, Florida
Cedric Tillman, WR, Tennessee
Isaiah Foskey, Edge, Notre Dame
Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
Tank Dell, WR, Houston

The Chicago Bears had success in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft with the selections of Kyler Gordon and Jaquan Brisker. Both players emerged as starters in their rookie seasons and are viewed as key pieces in the team’s rebuild on defense.

Call it a hunch, but it feels like the Bears will make it two years in a row with key starters added on Day 2.