Dan Roushar Caught Sniffing Around Possible Bears Draft Target

The Chicago Bears worked hard to lure Dan Roushar away from Tulane. They knew that talent alone wouldn’t solve the issues on their offensive line; it would also require a high-quality coach. Roushar built an excellent reputation in New Orleans a few years ago, developing multiple future Pro Bowlers. Now, he faces what could be the most difficult task of his NFL career. Luckily, the team gave him some ingredients to work with, adding Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson, and Drew Dalman before free agency. The job isn’t done, though.

Head coach Ben Johnson said one of the secrets of great offensive lines is being eight or nine guys deep. That means having quality depth that can step into the starting role when someone inevitably gets hurt. It is why the Bears might not be done adding. The draft lay ahead, and there is no shortage of potential talents they could snatch up. It appears Roushar might be on the trail of somebody in particular. Draft Diamonds revealed as much with a Twitter (X) update.

It isn’t a surprise that Dan Roushar would gravitate to Grant.

For one, the kid is far more talented than a player of his school level would indicate. Brandon Thorn of Bleacher Report, one of the top offensive line experts out there, gave him a 3rd round grade. His comparison for the young blocker? Terron Armstead. No wonder Roushar likes him. He and Armstead worked together for four seasons in New Orleans, during which he made three of his five Pro Bowls. There is no question the Bears offensive line coach sees those same traits. Another top draft expert, Lance Zierlein of NFL.com, believes Grant has a secret to his success.

“The former high school wrestler utilizes a bag of tricks with his protection approach and possesses adequate core strength to absorb a speed-to-power pass rush. He could develop into a solid pro as either a guard or tackle if he cleans up issues with hand usage.”

History shows a deep connection between wrestling and future success on the offensive line in football. Some notable examples are Willie Roaf, Johnathan Ogden, Jeff Saturday, Randle McDaniel, and Creed Humphrey. Dan Roushar likely knows this as well as anybody. Grant would be an excellent development option that could be used as insurance for when Braxton Jones potentially leaves next year.