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The Chicago Bears just missed out on the playoffs this past season. There's plenty of talent on the roster in Chicago, although it seems like something always holds them back from taking that next step in the postseason. With the 20th overall pick at their disposal this spring, the Bears will look to hit a home run in the first round.
There are a couple of areas Chicago could address. The most likely is the offensive line, which has continually struggled to protect quarterback Jay Cutler since he came over from Denver. Cutler would also benefit from a new target to throw the ball to down the field.
With that in mind, the latest mock draft from Josh Norris of Roto World sees the Bears taking Stanford tight end Zach Ertz in the first round.
20. Chicago Bears -- TE Zach Ertz, Stanford
The Bears could use offensive line help, and Fluker might be an option at right tackle or Cooper on the interior, but Ertz is an inline or detached tight end that is improving his game. He can get stronger as an end of line blocker, but Ertz finds ways to get open as a receiver and shows a willingness to beat physical coverage at the second or third levels.
Ertz's ability to both block and cause problems for opposing secondaries will be very appealing to Chicago's front office, as well as new coach Marc Trestman. The junior tight end, who is 6'5 and 252 pounds, hauled in 69 passes for 898 yards and six touchdowns with Stanford this past season.
Chicago seldom used tight ends in their passing attack last season, but that is expected to change under coach Trestman.
Another mock draft from SB Nation sees the Bears taking Alabama offensive tackle D.J. Fluker, who would immediately open up Matt Forte's running lanes on the outside.