Idaho ties in the NFL: Bears’ Leno is low pick under high regard

Nineteen NFL teams have first-round draft picks starting at left tackle. Chicago’s Charles Leno Jr. (No. 72, Boise State) is one of two who went in the last round.

Leno was the 246th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, 39 behind Denver starting center Matt Paradis (No. 61, Council High/Boise State) and just 10 ahead of Mr. Irrelevant, Houston safety Lonnie Ballentine. He started once as an extra lineman last season, and he became the permanent left tackle in Week 4 this year against Oakland.

“I’m still growing,” Leno told CBS Chicago. “I feel like I’m still young, still growing. This year, I am starting to grow into my role. It’s just a blessing to be here.”

Jermon Bushrod started the first three games before a right shoulder injury, but Leno has stayed ahead of the two-time Pro Bowler on the depth chart since his return.

This story was originally published December 5, 2015 at 11:40 PM with the headline "Idaho ties in the NFL: Bears’ Leno is low pick under high regard."