5 things to know about new Bears OT Jason Spriggs

The Bears added depth at offensive tackle with the signing of Jason Spriggs. Get to know Chicago’s newest offensive lineman.

The Chicago Bears added depth to their offensive line with the addition of former second-round pick Jason Spriggs. Spriggs, who’s spent his career with the Packers, signed a one-year deal with Chicago on Friday.

While he certainly won’t be competing for a starting job, he’ll provide much-needed depth at a position that was a concern last season. While Spriggs hasn’t lived up to his second-round billing, perhaps new offensive line coach Juan Castillo can salvage some potential left in Spriggs.

Let’s get to know the Bears’ newest offensive lineman:

1. The Bears were interested in Spriggs in 2016 NFL Draft

Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via USA TODAY NETWORK

It doesn’t seem like a coincidence that the Bears are taking a chance on Spriggs considering general manager Ryan Pace was interested in the former Indiana Hooiser in the 2016 NFL Draft.

The Bears were looking at drafting Spriggs, but Packers general manager Ted Thompson traded up to snag him before Chicago could with the 48th overall pick. Instead of getting Spriggs, the Bears traded back and drafted interior offensive lineman Cody Whitehair with the 56th overall pick.

Considering Spriggs hasn’t lived up to his second-round billing — and Whitehair has earned a second contract — the Bears certainly got the better end of the deal.

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