Luke Newman
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Chicago Bears offensive lineman Luke Newman.
The Chicago Bears have had their fair share of success finding late-round gems in the NFL Draft, and sixth-round pick, offensive lineman Luke Newman, could be the next in line.
At 6’3″ and 308 pounds, the rookie has already made a strong impression during preseason action. Newman has filled in for veteran Joe Thuney at left guard with the first-team unit, while also rotating at right guard and even practicing at center.
For a sixth-rounder, that level of responsibility speaks volumes. ESPN’s Courtney Cronin put it best:
“Luke Newman looks like a really good draft pick for the Bears. Played the whole first half at guard (in place of Joe Thuney) and is at right guard now. Chicago was drawn to Newman by the versatility he showed at the Shrine Bowl where he played all 3 positions on the interior. He’s done that in camp (including center) and has been at both guard spots vs. BUF and KC. Important depth piece.”
Bears’ former All-Pro center Olin Kreutz also believes the team has something special in Newman, posting on social media, “Bears might of found something in Luke Newman. I’d like to see him play some center also.”
Why the Bears May Have Something Special in Luke Newman
When Chicago selected Newman, general manager Ryan Poles wasted no time in explaining why the Bears were so high on him.
“We were really impressed with (his) feet and hands; (they) were always in the right place,” Poles said after drafting Newman. “(He’s a) physical, tough player that also can play guard and can play center, can handle communication. So we’re really excited about developing him.”
That balance of technique and toughness is exactly what Poles has targeted in building out Chicago’s offensive line. Newman may not have the prototypical size of some NFL guards, but his quickness and IQ help offset that.
Newman looked like he belonged with the starting unit throughout preseason and is making the case to be the future successor as part of the Bears’ interior offensive line.
Earning Trust From His Teammates
It’s one thing to impress the coaches and front office, but earning the respect of teammates matters even more. Starting center Drew Dalman, who lined up next to Newman against the Bills and Chiefs, came away impressed with the rookie.
“He did well, communicated well, felt like we’re on the same page and all that,” Dalman said after the game against Buffalo. “It was awesome. To be a rookie thrust into playing like that is really challenging. For him to do well is really admirable.”
That type of trust doesn’t come easily, especially in the trenches where chemistry and communication are vital. Newman’s ability to handle assignments alongside the seasoned veterans shows he’s ahead of the curve for a sixth-round pick.
For a team trying to build sustained success in the trenches, Newman isn’t just a developmental prospect; he may be something truly special.