Several NFL analysts have revised their mock drafts in the wake of the initial waves of free agency. All 15 we surveyed anticipate the Bears selecting USC quarterback Caleb Williams as the No. 1 pick. However, there is a divergence of opinions regarding what general manager Ryan Poles will do with the No. 9 pick.
According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune (March 18), the Bears might opt for Washington receiver Rome Odunze at the No. 9 spot. He suggests that the team could lean towards an offensive tackle or edge rusher following the acquisition of wide receiver Keenan Allen, but also speculates on the excitement of adding a young receiver to complement DJ Moore in the future.
Brian Bosarge from Draft Countdown (March 20) predicts Penn State tackle Olu Fashanu as the No. 9 pick, aiming to provide Caleb Williams with a solid left tackle to anchor the offensive line.
Will Brinson of CBS Sports (March 20) suggests Florida State defensive end Jared Verse as a potential pick for the Bears at No. 9, believing that bolstering the defense with another edge rusher could elevate their performance significantly, despite the recent addition of Keenan Allen to the receiving corps.
Derek Brown from Fantasy Pros (March 20) also predicts Washington receiver Rome Odunze at the No. 9 spot, envisioning him as a valuable addition to the Bears’ offense, particularly with an eye toward the future.
Walter Cherepinsky of Walter Football (March 20) proposes Florida State defensive end Jared Verse as the No. 9 pick, highlighting his athleticism and consistent performance as desirable traits for the Bears’ defense.
Nate Davis of USA Today (March 19) suggests LSU receiver Malik Nabers as a potential luxury pick at No. 9, emphasizing his exceptional value if still available and his potential to learn from veterans like Keenan Allen and DJ Moore before assuming a larger role in the future.
Ryan Fowler from The Draft Network (March 18) predicts Washington tackle Troy Fautanu as the No. 9 pick, praising his versatility and potential to excel at both tackle and guard positions.
Vinny Iyer of Sporting News (March 19) suggests UCLA defensive end Laiatu Latu as a possible pick for the Bears at No. 9, aiming to provide support for defensive-minded coach Matt Eberflus with a versatile pass rusher.
Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com (March 19) also predicts Washington receiver Rome Odunze as the No. 9 pick, envisioning him as part of a formidable receiving corps alongside Keenan Allen and DJ Moore to complement projected first-overall pick Caleb Williams.
