The Chicago Bears hold the coveted first overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, securing their chance to grab Caleb Williams, the highly touted quarterback prospect from USC. However, their draft strategy extends beyond this top selection, as they also possess the ninth overall pick.
Originally, the first overall pick belonged to the Carolina Panthers, who traded up in 2023 to acquire Bryce Young. Consequently, the Bears acquired the ninth pick in exchange. With this advantageous position of having two picks within the top 10, General Manager Ryan Poles has the opportunity to make significant moves.
Their draft capital, as outlined by Pro Football Network, includes:
– Round 1, Pick 1 (acquired from CAR)
– Round 1, Pick 9
– Round 3, Pick 75
– Round 4, Pick 122 (acquired from PHI)
The Bears have already utilized some of their picks in trades, such as acquiring Montez Sweat and Keenan Allen, leaving them without second and fourth-round selections. Additionally, fifth and sixth-round picks were traded for offensive line players Ryan Bates and Dan Feeney, while their seventh-round pick was exchanged for N’Keal Harry.
Ryan Poles has demonstrated a proactive approach as a GM, unafraid to maneuver draft capital to enhance the team’s prospects. With a solid roster in place, bolstered by potential star quarterback Caleb Williams, the Bears are poised for success in the upcoming season and beyond.
Identifying potential areas of improvement, positions like EDGE rusher and wide receiver are areas of interest, particularly with concerns about the age of current receiver Keenan Allen and the approaching prime years of DJ Moore. Additionally, shoring up the offensive line with an offensive tackle could also be a priority for the Bears in the early rounds of the draft.
