How the NFL Draft Order Could Influence the Bears' Decision for the No

With the 2024 NFL draft only a week away, the Chicago Bears' strategy for their No. 1 overall pick seems set, likely choosing Caleb Williams as their future quarterback. The clarity diminishes, however, for their subsequent selection at No. 9. The sequence of picks leading up to this spot will be pivotal in shaping their decision.

Here's the lineup for the first round of the draft:

1. Bears (via CAR)
2. Commanders
3. Patriots
4. Cardinals
5. Chargers
6. Giants
7. Titans
8. Falcons
9. Bears
10. Jets
... [remaining list truncated for brevity]

The Bears are considering various strategies for their No. 9 pick, including selecting a wide receiver, offensive tackle, or pass rusher, which could all provide immediate and long-term benefits. They might also contemplate trading up or down, given the array of possibilities influenced by earlier picks and the motivations of subsequent teams.


Focusing on the teams ahead, the draft could see quarterbacks dominate the top three selections, with a potential pivotal moment at No. 4 when the Cardinals choose. They might opt for one of the top wide receivers or trade down to a quarterback-seeking team. The Chargers, Giants, and Titans may look to wide receivers or offensive tackles, whereas the Falcons are tipped to pick a defensive player first.

If there's a surge in quarterback and offensive tackle selections, an elite receiver might still be available for the Bears at No. 9, presenting an opportunity to provide Williams with a high-caliber target. This aligns with their recent acquisition of Keenan Allen to complement DJ Moore, bolstering Williams' options. However, given Allen's age and potential contract duration, GM Ryan Poles may view another top receiver as a long-term offensive cornerstone.

Alternatively, if the best wide receivers are taken by pick No. 9, but a coveted left tackle remains, the Bears could prioritize strengthening their offensive line, reflecting Poles' and Assistant GM Ian Cunningham's emphasis on building strong front lines.

On the defensive side, if a standout pass rusher is available and the offensive prospects are taken, the Bears might seize the chance to enhance their defensive line, continuing its improvement from the previous season.

There's also a scenario where the top prospects are all chosen before the Bears' second pick, or a scenario where fewer than expected quarterbacks are drafted early, which might prompt other teams to trade up. In such cases, Poles could leverage the No. 9 pick for additional draft capital, attracting interest from teams like the Vikings, Broncos, Raiders, Jets, or Saints.

As the draft approaches on April 25, the situation remains fluid, with potential draft-day trades likely to further influence the Bears' strategy from the second pick onward.