Tayo Fabuluje to the Chicago Bears: Full Draft-Pick Breakdown
Published by Ross Read on May 2, 2015
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
The Bears opted to go offensive line with their final pick in the draft. Given the hole at right tackle, Tayo Fabuluje might get more of a chance than people think.
Fabuluje is a massive man standing at 6’6”, 353 pounds. He’s played only two years of college football due to some transfers and personal issues. He needs to prove he’s focused on football and wants to make this team.
Some personal issues with Fabuluje forced him to work three jobs in 2013 to support his family, certainly taking his mind off of football.
When on the field, Fabuluje showed solid ability to seal off defenders in the running game. Due to his size, he’s tough for defensive ends and linebackers to get around straight up. Bull rushing him is next to impossible as well because he stays stout and isn’t easily moved.
The Bears would likely want Fabuluje to lose some weight. He can trim down to 330 pounds, where his conditioning and lateral movements will be better. Guard is an option for Fabuluje if he can’t develop the footwork needed to be an NFL tackle.
Jordan Mills was the team’s primary right tackle last year. He struggled with injuries and poor play after putting up a decent rookie year. Fabuluje might be able to push Mills for a starting gig but it seems unlikely right now for him to overtake the veteran.
One area where Fabuluje can help himself is his on-field demeanor. He needs to play more with an edge and play up to his size. He doesn’t quite realize how big he is and how tough it can be for guys to knock him off of a spot.
Being around someone like Kyle Long can him Fabuluje. There aren’t too many players who get more fired up than Long. Jermon Bushrod can be a great mentor, too, as he can help Fabuluje develop the footwork needed to find success.
Teams often take players in the sixth round because they see something in them. The Bears might have talked to Fabuluje and saw a player ready to put whatever happened in the past behind him and focus on football.
Can Fabuluje make this roster? It will be an uphill battle for him. Mills won’t give up his spot willingly and neither will another veteran. It will be interesting to see what player shows up to camp both physically and mentally.
Read more Chicago Bears news on BleacherReport.com
