Boise State’s Ryan Clady announced on Tuesday he would forego his final season of eligibility to turn pro for the April draft.
Clady is viewed as a potential first-round pick, adding depth at a position the Bears have to address early after ignoring it in the draft for five years.
He becomes the sixth offensive tackle with credential to potentially be a first-round selection, meaning there will be some choices for Jerry Angelo at No. 14 should he opt for a tackle there.
Michigan’s Jake Long is the cream of the crop. Vanderbilt’s Chris Williams, Southern Cal’s Sam Baker, Pitt’s Jeff Otah and Nebraska’s Carl Nicks could also warrant first-round grades.
Two intriguing junior prospects could add even more depth in Michael Oher of Ole Miss and Phil Loadholt of Oklahoma. Their status for the draft remains up in the air. The deadline for underclassmen to declare is Jan. 15.
