The Bears will begin the draft by making the first selection, but the team also owns pick No. 9 for the time being. A large gap exists between that point and Chicago’s next choice, though, and a move aimed at closing it could be in play.
Dianna Russini of The Athletic reports the Bears are “very open for business” with respect to the ninth overall pick. Chicago is set to select Caleb Williams at No. 1, but staying in place at the other top-10 spot would leave the team off the clock until the midpoint of the third round (No. 75). For that reason, many have painted the Bears as a trade-down candidate.
Earlier this month, however, general manager Ryan Poles indicated he did not anticipate a move down the board in the first round. Trading away the ninth pick could leave Chicago out of range for a top receiving option (likely Rome Odunze) or the team’s preference in terms of offensive linemen (a list which could include Williams’ top choice, Olu Fashanu). The Bears have also done work on edge prospects, and departing the top 10 would likely take at least one prospect — Dallas Turner — out of consideration.
Still, even a small move down the board could yield considerable draft capital on Day 2 of this weekend’s draft and/or picks in 2025. For a Bears team still looking to add young talent on both sides of the ball, closing the gap between 9 and 75 would be reasonable. Of course, Poles’ decision will come down to the strength of offers made by teams looking to move up.
Several potential suitors have emerged in the hours leading up to the draft, with teams like the Colts, Rams, 49ers and Jaguars reported as being interested in an aggressive deal. Poles will likely not want to venture too far down the order, but as Russini notes suitors have been informed the No. 9 selection could change hands “for the right price.”
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