Everyone in the football world is expecting the Chicago Bears to make some kind of trade during the 2024 NFL Draft. All signs are pointing to that trade involving quarterback Justin Fields, as the Bears seem intent on using the No. 1 pick in the draft on USC quarterback Caleb Williams.
Rumors swirled about Fields being on the move during the NFL Combine, but no move has been made yet. His market reportedly isn’t as robust as some have been reporting, as teams such as the Atlanta Falcons and Pittsburgh Steelers have cooled off in their pursuits.
With Williams likely heading to the Windy City with the No. 1 pick, focus will quickly turn to the second first-rounder Chicago owns. The No. 1 pick is courtesy of the Carolina Panthers; their selection comes in at No. 9.
NFL News & Rumors: Malik Nabers, 2024 NFL Draft, Los Angeles Chargers, Chicago Bears Updates
The Bears made strides near the end of the 2023 season, but this roster still has some work that needs to be done. Upgrading along the offensive line wouldn’t be the worst idea, as protecting whoever is under center is paramount.
But, ESPN analyst Jordan Reid has the Bears heading in a different direction. In his most recent mock draft, he believes they are going to make a blockbuster trade, but not one that people were thinking of.
In his mock, Reid has predicted the Bears to make a trade with the Los Angeles Chargers, moving up to No. 5. With that fifth selection, they are getting another weapon for their passing game, selecting LSU wide receiver, Malik Nabers.
“It’s an aggressive move for the Bears, as general manager Ryan Poles is looking to improve the supporting cast on offense. The Bears acquired DJ Moore last spring, and Nabers — who had 1,569 receiving yards last season — has similar traits and would pair nicely. He’s super explosive. The trio of Moore, Nabers and tight end Cole Kmet could really help Williams succeed right out of the gate,” wrote Reid.
NFL News & Rumors: Malik Nabers, 2024 NFL Draft, Los Angeles Chargers, Chicago Bears Updates
Nabers had a record-setting career at LSU and would provide the Bears with another dynamic weapon in their passing game. Wide receiver is a need in Chicago, even with D.J. Moore in the fold, as Darnell Mooney is set to hit free agency.
Beyond those two, there wasn’t much production at the wide receiver position in 2023. Rookie Tyler Scott was third among wide receivers in production with 17 catches for 168 scoreless yards.
The team is still high on Scott, who has potential as a slot receiver. Nabers would give them another perimeter weapon to bookend Moore, raising the ceiling of this unit exponentially. Their game plan will change with Williams under center instead of Fields as this kind of move reflects that.
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