The Chicago Bears shored up their defensive line with the additions of Florida defensive tackle Gervon Dexter and South Carolina defensive tackle Zacch Pickens on Day 2 of the 2023 NFL draft.
Dexter and Pickens will serve as key rotational pieces along the defensive interior — alongside veterans Justin Jones and Andrew Billings — and the hope is they emerge as the future at defensive tackle.
With the additions of Dexter and Pickens, here’s a look at the Bears’ defensive line depth:
Justin Jones
Jones provided consistency to the team’s weakest position group last season, where he led the Bears in tackles for loss and was second in QB hits. Jones garnered praise from Poles for his consistency and playmaking ability.
Andrew Billings
The Bears signed Billings to a one-year deal this offseason, solidifying the 1-technique role. He immediately shores up the team’s run defense, which was the second worst in the NFL last season.
Gervon Dexter
Chicago kicked off Day 2 with the selection of Dexter at No. 53. He’s a versatile interior defender, who can play both 3-technique and 1-technique, but he could factor in at 1-tech. Dexter has an explosive first step that helps him create penetration and disrupt the run game.
Zacch Pickens
The Bears selected Pickens at the top of the third round. He has a nice combination of explosiveness and power, as well as versatility. Pickens can play both 3-technique and 1-technique, and he’ll likely factor into the 3-tech role.
Andrew Brown
The Bears signed Brown, a former fifth-round pick in 2018, off the Cardinals practice squad last November. He totaled one tackle in five games last season with Chicago. They tendered Brown as an exclusive rights free agent this offseason, and he faces an uphill battle to earn a roster spot.
Donovan Jeter
Jeter, an undrafted rookie with the Steelers last season, signed a reserve/future contract with the Bears this offseason but doesn’t figure to factor into the 53-man roster.
