Bears ‘very open’ to No. 9 pick trade

The No. 1 pick will address the biggest need on Chicago’s roster. However, quarterback isn’t the only position the Bears should look to improve at heading into 2024.

While they went out and traded for Keenan Allen, the Bears could still look for extra receiving help. Beyond Moore and Allen, Chicago has former draftees themselves in Tyler Scott and Velus Jones among a number of players battling for the No. 3 role. If a player like Rome Odunze or Malik Nabers is available at No. 9 it may be hard for Chicago to trade down. But if both are off the board, it makes the Bears’ plan a little easier.

If they didn’t go wide receiver, the Bears would likely target a defensive line. Montez Sweat proved to be a strong addition off the edge, Chicago could add an explosive counterpart next to him like Dallas Turner. Or they could bolster the middle of the line with a strong defensive tackle in Byron Murphy. Of course, those are options if they are to stay at No. 9.

If the Bears don’t go too far back in the first round, perhaps one of those defensive players will be available. But a trade would be more about adding a number of prospects rather than the players at the top. With a wide receiver class as strong as 2024’s the Bears will surely see how the draft unfolds. But if the board isn’t to their liking, Ryan Poles and company seem prepared to make a deal.