It’s common knowledge that the Bears are eyeing Caleb Williams as their top choice in the upcoming NFL Draft. However, the real intrigue lies in their second first-round pick at No. 9. They have various options: trading up for a standout receiver or tackle, trading down to accumulate more picks, or staying put and hoping for certain players to fall to them, like Rome Odunze, Malik Nabers, or Joe Alt, or addressing their edge-rushing need with players like Dallas Turner, Jared Verse, or Laiatu Latu.
While there’s a clear idea of who the top 10 picks might include, there’s always room for a surprise. NFL draft expert Daniel Jeremiah suggests Byron Murphy, a defensive tackle from Texas, could be this year’s unexpected top-10 pick. This speculation aligns with the Bears’ need for a disruptive defensive presence, a role Eberflus emphasizes as crucial for their defense.
Despite having drafted defensive tackles last year and needing an edge rusher, the Bears might still opt for a talented defensive tackle like Murphy due to his impact potential. Murphy’s attributes, including his explosiveness and versatility, make him an appealing prospect. Though Odunze and Alt are the prime targets for the Bears at No. 9, Murphy and Alabama’s JC Latham could also be considerations. General manager Ryan Poles may be hesitant to trade down too far to ensure they land their preferred choice.
While supporting Williams with their second-round pick is crucial, the Bears’ documented need for a dominant defensive tackle suggests they may prioritize Murphy despite internal belief in Dexter’s development. With Murphy’s stock on the rise, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him end up with the Bears, whether at No. 9 or after a slight trade down.
