With the month of March officially here, all 32 NFL franchises are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft. The scouting combine is officially in the rearview mirror, which means that teams have some additional clarity about what the 2026 draft class could look like and, more specifically, what to expect in terms of the interior offensive line class.
For the Chicago Bears, this year's draft will represent a significant opportunity to continue adding to the foundation that was established during the first year of the Ben Johnson-Ryan Poles era. In what was expected to be an offseason where the Bears would focus heavily on defense, the retirement of center Drew Dalman means the Bears front office could turn to next month's draft to find a long-term replacement.
Iowa Hawkeyes center Logan Jones is a name who could intrigue the Bears at 57th or 89th overall. Let's get into our scouting report on Jones.
Logan Jones, Iowa, (6-foot-3, 299 pounds)
From his NFL.com draft profile via Lance Zierlein:
"Undersized but highly experienced with NFL-ready technique. Jones has a dense frame and short limbs. He has impressive initial quickness and stays firm inside the framework with his hands while his feet rarely stop pressing forward. Long nose tackles with quick hands are his kryptonite at the point of attack. Iowa's scheme limited his true pass-set count, so proving he can anchor and play with gap range will be essential. He's operational in gap schemes but better in zone, where his athleticism mitigates his lack of length. Jones' age, traits and center-only value could limit his suitor count, but he has the polish to help early with the right fit."
Film:
Strengths:
- A complete technician as a player. Iowa is one of the best college programs in the country when developing offensive linemen, and Jones tape is reflective of that.
- Establishes leverage as soon as the ball is snapped.
- Eyes are always looking toward the second level.
- Athletic enough on combo blocks to release and take on linebackers and safeties in space.
- Solid in pass protection with a strong anchor.
- Made nearly 50 starts during his time in college. The experience will allow him to transition very easily to the next level.
Weaknesses:
- Is an older prospect who will be 25 years old halfway through his rookie season.
- Length will be a factor for teams when trying to project whether or not he can take on bigger, faster, and stronger defensive linemen and linebackers.
- Struggles to set the edge when there isn't much space to operate.
- May need to add a lot more strength to realize his true potential.
Does Jones fit the Bears offense?
Assessing Jones fit in the Bears offense is interesting. From the Bears perspective, he does have a high level of athleticism and instincts that could intrigue the front office and coaching staff. But there are some limitations, including his arm length and lack of size, that could be a reason the franchise grades him lower than expected. His ability to climb to the second level and be a technician makes him an interesting player who could be a solid starter for years to come.
Conclusion:
Overall, Jones is the definition of an old school offensive lineman who is polished in the technical aspects of his game. His skillset clearly fits what NFL offenses are doing today, especially in the running game. Some teams may look at his lack of size, length, and strength and determine that he needs at least a year of development before competing for a starting spot.
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