The Chicago Bears made a smart choice in selecting Iowa punter Tory Taylor in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. Despite being a key player on a struggling Hawkeyes team, Taylor consistently delivered with his strong performance. This caught the attention of the Bears, who recognized his talent and potential.
Taylor’s impressive college career culminated in him winning the Ray Guy Award for the best punter in college football last season, setting records for punting yards and averaging 48.2 yards per punt. Despite being selected this high, it is not common for kickers or punters to be drafted this early on. Only a few have been taken in the fourth round or higher, highlighting Taylor’s skill and potential.
The Bears knew they were getting a top-tier punter with a proven track record of success. Even if star quarterback Caleb Williams reassured Taylor that he might not be punting as often in the NFL, having a reliable punter like Taylor is a valuable asset for the team. With their investment in Taylor, the Bears solidified their special teams and added depth to their roster.
