Don’t be surprised if Bears trade back from No. 9 in NFL draft

The Chicago Bears are gearing up for an important 2024 NFL draft, where they have a pair of top-10 selections to elevate the roster.

There’s no surprise what Chicago will do at No. 1, where quarterback Caleb Williams is essentially a lock. But there’s more intrigue when it comes to the No. 9 pick, where there are a variety of options.

It certainly sounds like the Bears would be content to stay put at ninth overall and land two blue chip players, especially if a top prospect like Joe Alt, Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze falls to them.

Then again, we are in lying season, and Chicago could very well be fielding interest for that pick — especially on draft night when guys begin to fall.

According to ESPN’s Jordan Reid, the Bears could very well trade back from No. 9, acquire additional draft capital and land a top edge rusher.

All signs point to USC quarterback Caleb Williams being the No. 1 pick, but what happens after that for Chicago? The Bears have only three additional selections, meaning a move back could be in play at No. 9. “I’d be shocked if they make that pick at nine,” an NFC area scout said. “[Bears GM Ryan] Poles loves to move around and build through the draft, and that roster still needs help in some spots.” Don’t be surprised if Chicago moves back, adds more draft capital and takes the best defensive end available wherever it lands. Laiatu Latu (UCLA) and Jared Verse (Florida State) are two options who would help off the edge in Chicago.

General manager Ryan Poles said his staff has divided into teams to help sort out the direction the team should go with the ninth overall pick — be it offensive tackle, wide receiver or edge rusher.

Trading back certainly remains an option, especially for a team willing to make a compelling offer to a Chicago team that has just four draft picks this year.

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