Bears Would Be Crazy Not to Draft Houston OT Josh Jones if He Falls to Them in Round 2

The 2020 offensive tackle class in the NFL Draft is the deepest in recent memory. Tristan Wirfs, Andrew Thomas, Mekhi Becton, and Jedrick Wills are all top-tier prospects that will fly off the board early, but there are still quality options below them that present significant upside. Houston's Josh Jones immediately stands out as a potential sleeper candidate, and could be taken as early as the end of Round 1.

Yet, there's a slim chance that Jones could drop into the second round. And if that's the case, the Chicago Bears should pounce at the opportunity to select him when their first pick comes up at No. 43 overall.

It's no secret that the Bears have interest in the left tackle, as they met with him twice during the pre-draft process. And their regard for him is fully warranted.

Chicago has some uncertainty on the offensive line, especially with the retirement of guard Kyle Long, whom they replaced with former Seattle Seahawk Germain Ifedi. However, the tackle position is the biggest question mark. They do have Bobby Massie slotted in at right tackle, but he's only getting older.

Jones' go-to pro comparison, ironically enough, is probably Massie. Considering Massie is 30-years-old and on the books for nearly $16 million, however, they could opt to cut ties with him in the near future, as he accounts for $2.6 million in dead money next year. Jones might not be an immediate impact player as a rookie, but he has too much upside to ignore.

Jones has been pegged as a project tackle who has a high ceiling and has a few iffy traits that can be addressed with the right coaching. While he did spend the majority of his college career at Houston at left tackle, you can't rule out Jones eventually starting off his career on the right side of the line of scrimmage.

All told, Bears general manager Ryan Pace would be a madman if he passed up on Jones if he drops to pick No. 43. Don't overthink it, just do it!