In Lance Zierlein's mock draft 2.0, the Bears secure their dream scenario.
The Chicago Bears find themselves in control of the 2024 NFL draft for the second consecutive year, with all eyes eagerly awaiting their pivotal quarterback decision.
Amidst widespread anticipation, the prevailing expectation is that Chicago will part ways with veteran Justin Fields and utilize the first overall pick to secure Caleb Williams, a highly touted prospect regarded by many as a generational talent.
While the Bears' intentions with the top pick are widely presumed, the spotlight now shifts to their own first-round selection at No. 9. With only five draft picks at their disposal, speculation abounds regarding potential trade-down scenarios or the acquisition of top-tier talents at positions like wide receiver, edge rusher, or offensive tackle to bolster their roster.
In a recent mock draft by NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein, the Bears find themselves in an enviable position. Not only do they execute a trade-down maneuver from No. 9, but they also emerge from the first round with arguably the best quarterback prospect and a top-three wide receiver, alongside additional draft assets.
Here's a breakdown of Zierlein's projections for the Bears' two first-round picks:
Round 1, Pick 1: QB Caleb Williams, USC
The prevailing expectation points towards the Bears selecting Caleb Williams with the first overall pick, marking a significant move away from incumbent quarterback Justin Fields. Williams' visit to Chicago during the NFL Scouting Combine left a lasting impression, and a forthcoming Top 30 visit further solidifies the likelihood of him donning the Bears' jersey come draft day.
Round 1, Pick 12 (from DEN): WR Rome Odunze, Washington
In Zierlein's mock draft, the Bears execute a trade-back strategy with the Denver Broncos, sliding down to the 12th overall pick while still acquiring Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze. This shrewd move allows GM Ryan Poles to bolster the team's supporting cast for Williams while also adding valuable draft capital.
With wide receiver identified as a pressing need this off-season, Odunze's potential pairing with DJ Moore offers an enticing prospect for an incoming rookie quarterback like Williams.
As the draft approaches, the Bears' draft picks for 2024 have been finalized, offering clarity amidst the offseason flurry of speculation and anticipation:
- Round 1, Pick 1 (from CAR)- Round 1, Pick 9- Round 3, Pick 75- Round 4, Pick 110- Round 4, Pick 122 (from PHI)
| POLL | ||
6 MARS | 107 ANSWERS In Lance Zierlein's mock draft 2.0, the Bears secure their dream scenario. Should the Bears draft Odunze? | ||
| yes | 88 | 82.2 % |
| No | 19 | 17.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
