Bears' no. 9 Pick: Three Targets. Three Different Positions
Despite trading away their No. 1 pick, the Chicago Bears are still well-positioned for the upcoming 2023 NFL draft. This is thanks to the Carolina Panthers' No. 9 pick, which the Bears now possess, along with three more draft picks over the next three years.
Upon examining general manager Ryan Poles' approach to free agency, it becomes clear that both the offensive and defensive lines are still the team's most significant areas of need leading up to the draft. While the trenches are in contention to bolstering the roster, the Bears front office can also look at other positions during the NFL Draft.
Despite their position on the outskirts of the top 10, the Bears could still have several elite prospects available when the No. 9 pick is up for selection.
Here are three potential targets at three different positions the Bears could select with their first round pick at the upcoming NFL draft.
1) OT Peter Skoronski - Northwestern
It appears highly likely that the Bears will choose an offensive tackle with the No. 9 pick, and Peter Skoronski is a potential local talent who can help in protecting Justin Fields. Skoronski's addition would be a sound decision. According to Pro Football Focus, he has the top pass-blocking grade (93.0) among all college football players.
2) DT Jalen Carter - Georgia
It is believed that Jalen Carter could potentially drop to the Bears with the No. 9 pick, mainly due to his off-field issues and disappointing pro day showing. Carter possesses all the qualities to be a serious force in the middle of the Bears defensive line, but his draft status has dwindled, with rumors circulating that many teams have removed him from their draft boards.
3) CB Devon Witherspoon - Illinois
Seeing as the Bears did not address the cornerback position during their free agency frenzy, and with the position still a priority for the team, Chicago could potentially target a cornerback early in the draft. Devon Witherspoon is expected to be available when the Bears are on the clock, and he is widely regarded as the top cornerback in this draft class. This comes as no surprise given his exceptional coverage skills and his ability to be physical and finish his tackles. Witherspoon could be the ideal pick in creating a no fly zone in Chicago.
As seen on - 10 potential targets for the Bears at No. 9 in NFL draft
| POLL | ||
1 AVRIL | 72 ANSWERS Bears' no. 9 Pick: Three Targets. Three Different Positions Which player are taking with the no. 9 in the NFL Draft? | ||
| Peter Skoronski | 32 | 44.4 % |
| Jalen Carter | 19 | 26.4 % |
| Devon Witherspoon | 21 | 29.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
