The Chicago Bears finished the 2023 season strong, particularly defensively. The greatest noticeable improvement occurred when the franchise acquired for Washington Commanders edge rusher Montez Sweat at the trade deadline. Sweat had six sacks and 14 quarterback hits since coming in Chicago in Week 9. Following the deal, Chicago expected his performance and signed him to a four-year contract extension worth $98 million, securing Sweat’s presence in a new era of Bears football.
This year’s NFL Draft will play a significant role in defining the new era. Chicago possesses the first and ninth overall picks in the first round. Following the Justin Fields deal, it became evident what the organization planned to do with the #1 overall pick. They will choose a new franchise quarterback, most likely Caleb Williams. As a result, the No. 9 pick represents an excellent opportunity to add another franchise cornerstone at a vital position.
Head coach Matt Eberflus’ comments to reporters about finding a pass-rushing partner for Sweat may provide insight into what the team could do with that pick.
“It’s important that we get that piece because you have to have the 1-2 punch,” he remarked. “It could be inside as well.” When you look at who has the most influence on the quarterback, I would argue that we should also look at the inner piece, which is critical. Direct line to the quarterback. When they max protect, there is a weak area in the protection. We’re looking at every pass rusher. It might be inside or outside, anywhere along the line. We’re keeping an open mind in that regard.
If the Bears choose that approach, they should have plenty of options. The majority of the top-10 draft picks are expected to go to quarterbacks, wide receivers, and offensive linemen. Chicago might end up with the honor of selecting the first edge-rusher off the board, or even the first defense overall.
There are also pass-rush partners to be found. Dallas Turner and Laiatu Latu are the consensus top edge players in the draft, and they are widely expected to be available at No. 9. As Eberflus stated, if the Bears elect to go with an interior defender instead, Byron Murphy II is regarded as a force to be reckoned with and will almost certainly be present when Chicago’s moment at the podium arrives.
The Bears will have plenty of alternatives in April. There will be a lot of pressure to get everything properly. They should be one of the more intriguing clubs to follow in this year’s NFL Draft.
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