Bears general manager Ryan Poles teases fans about the first pick by saying, “Tune in Thursday.”
Although two days before the 2024 NFL Draft, Bears general manager Ryan Poles is aware of who the first overall pick is, he isn’t quite ready to reveal it. Poles stated at a pre-draft press conference on Tuesday, “We know what we’re going to do.” “On Thursday, everyone must tune in to watch.” The Bears acquired the No. 1 pick in a trade with the Carolina Panthers, and on draft night in Detroit, quarterback Caleb Williams—the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner—will most likely be selected first overall for the third time in Chicago’s illustrious history, fulfilling the Poles’ two-year plan.
Apart from the constant smoke surrounding the Bears and Williams, there are additional justifications for why the majority view is valid. There is a severe need at quarterback because Chicago only has two on the depth chart right now: journeyman backup Brett Rypien and undrafted Tyson Bagent. Poles remarked, “We take pride in our past.” “It will be difficult to make this team at this time.” The general consensus, according to Poles, was to be in position to draft a quarterback should 2021 first-round pick Justin Fields fail to establish himself as the team’s starting quarterback when the team traded the top pick to the Panthers weeks before the 2023 draft in exchange for a 2024 first-round pick as part of the return package. Decisions are often influenced by shifts in top coaching positions and personnel leadership.
Fields was traded to the Steelers last month to serve as Russell Wilson’s backup in Pittsburgh. Fields was selected 11th overall in a trade with the New York Giants, where he was originally selected by then-GM Ryan Pace and the Bears from No. 20. The new brass has been following Williams nonstop. To get here, Poles, offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, head coach Matt Eberflus, and other team members have put in countless hours. Before Williams’ pro day workout, during which new Bears wide receiver Keenan Allen made an appearance, the Bears met with him at the NFL Scouting Combine, where Eberflus gives prospects the option to play putt-putt or darts before the more intense interview begins. The Bears were also the only team to host Williams at team headquarters for
Everybody’s journey to gather all the information is unique, according to Poles. “We’ve had other touchpoints with guys on our board who are high but didn’t show up for a 30-visit. We have a very close-knit network of players in the building that we truly, truly trust. Despite having an NFL-low four selections over seven rounds, Poles called reports that the Bears are shopping the No. 9 overall pick and stated he doesn’t feel the need to make a trade to add picks.
