Based simply on the talent added alone, the Chicago Bears were among the biggest winners of the 2024 NFL Draft . But, the board couldn’t have fallen any better in Round 1 for general manager Ryan Poles and the Bears.
Caleb Williams, USC’s former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback, had been earmarked for the Windy City ever since the Bears secured the No. 1 overall pick, yet almost too fortuitous to believe, Poles and Chicago were also able to add an elite No. 1 wide receiver to their new franchise quarterback’s supporting cast with the No. 9 overall selection with Washington’s Rome Odunze.
Chicago Bears’ Made Caleb Williams, Rome Odunze ‘Dream Scenario’ Reality
ESPN’s Field Yates put together a list of his favorite picks in each round of the 2024 NFL Draft, and to little surprise, Odunze tops the list.
“Coming out of the first round with the Williams-Odunze duo is a dream scenario for Chicago,” Yates writes for ESPN. “Odunze was my sixth-ranked prospect, and I firmly believe that no matter how talented a young quarterback is — and Williams is plenty talented — a team should do everything in its power to surround him with the best possible supporting cast. The Bears furthered that effort with the addition of Odunze to a now-stacked receiver room. He’s an exceptional route runner, and Williams will love his contested catch ability.”
While it’s easy to view Odunze as a ‘luxury’ piece in a Bears offense that already includes true No. 1 receiver and deep-threat D.J. Moore, the former Huskies’ standout’s presence only sets Williams up for more immediate success as a rookie.
As Pro Football Focus points out, Odunze led the nation in deep yards with 783 last season, which should throw the Bears’ playbook wide open.
It’s easy to win the NFL Draft, which a strong argument can be made that Poles and the Bears have done, but, Chicago’s trajectory hinges on Williams becoming one of the premier quarterbacks in the league. This draft might be the foundation to make that a reality.
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