Most analysts and experts concur that the Chicago Bears are unlikely to engage in draft trade-ups this year.
With just four picks in the upcoming draft, the Bears’ selection arsenal is limited, albeit featuring two top-10 picks: No. 1, No. 9, No. 75, and No. 122. It would be surprising, especially given their constrained resources, if Chicago, led by general manager Ryan Poles, opted to move up from the ninth position, considering the expected availability of numerous impactful players at that spot.
Nevertheless, speculation is rife with trade projections and scenarios. Joe Tansey of Bleacher Report, for instance, crafted hypothetical trade proposals for the Bears aimed at making a significant impact in the NFL draft. In one potential trade-up scenario, Chicago would trade picks No. 9 and No. 75 to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for the seventh overall pick.
Tansey suggested that, presuming the Bears draft quarterback Caleb Williams with the first overall pick, a move up to add a premium offensive lineman or a top wide receiver would offer the most value. This strategy, according to Tansey, could see Chicago landing a standout wide receiver like Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze at No. 7, provided the quarterback frenzy unfolds behind the Bears’ top pick and an offensive tackle is chosen within the top six.
While the Titans could still secure an outstanding player at No. 9, the prospect of trading down for an additional third-round pick might not be enticing enough for them, particularly after securing Calvin Ridley as their No. 1 wide receiver in free agency.
As the draft approaches, the Bears, under Ryan Poles’ leadership, face a pivotal decision at No. 9. While trade-up scenarios generate excitement, the most probable outcome is Chicago either staying put or trading down. Poles emphasized the importance of assessing options and debating the impact of various positions on the team’s short-term and long-term prospects.
Here’s my mindset on the #Bears at No. 9:
1. 4 QBs go before them & you’re all but guaranteed one of Alt, Nabers/Odunze, or Turner.
2. 3 QBs go & all 4 of those other names also go. The Bears are sitting in prime trade down position for 11, 12, or 13.
Great spot to be in.
— Aaron Leming (@AaronLemingNFL) March 26, 2024
Ultimately, the Bears’ draft strategy will be influenced by player evaluations and how the draft board unfolds. While selecting a highly touted prospect like Rome Ozunze, Malik Nabers, or Joe Alt seems likely if available, if not, a trade-down scenario becomes more probable. However, Poles have shown a willingness to make aggressive moves if enamored with a particular prospect, potentially opening the door for a trade-up.
