The Chicago Bears made an unexpected move in the NFL Draft by selecting Iowa punter Tory Taylor in the fourth round. Taylor, who was the first punter taken in this year’s draft, caught the attention of the Bears with his impressive performance at Iowa.
Known for his booming punts, Taylor was a key player for the Hawkeyes, often called upon to punt the ball away in challenging situations. His exceptional skills on the field did not go unnoticed, as he was awarded the Ray Guy Award for the best punter in college football last season.
Setting records along the way, Taylor broke the single-season punting yards record with 4,479 yards and holds the NCAA record for career average punt distance at 46.3 yards. His remarkable talent and consistency made him a standout player in the draft.
While it may be rare for a punter to be selected so high in the draft, the Bears were willing to invest in Taylor due to his proven track record and potential impact on the field. Even quarterback Caleb Williams, the first overall pick for the Bears, acknowledged Taylor’s talent and joked that he may not have to punt as often in the NFL.
With Taylor on their roster, the Bears have secured a valuable asset that can make a difference in crucial moments during games. Despite the unconventional pick, the Bears are confident in their decision to draft Taylor and are excited to see him in action on the field.