It appears that the Chicago Bears have, as expected, reached a final decision regarding their first overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Following the recent trade of Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport indicates that USC quarterback and 2022 Heisman Trophy recipient Caleb Williams is now firmly on Chicago’s radar as their top selection.
According to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Bears acquired a 2025 sixth-round pick from the Steelers in exchange for Fields. However, this pick could be upgraded to a fourth-rounder if Fields participates in at least 51 percent of the Steelers’ offensive snaps in the 2024 season.
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Chicago secured the first overall pick in this year’s draft from the Carolina Panthers, who traded away their 2024 first-rounder as part of a deal to select Bryce Young first overall in the previous draft.
The Panthers likely didn’t anticipate finishing as the worst team in football with a 2-15 record when they made this move, making it a significant win for the Chicago Bears. As a result, the Bears are now poised to acquire a highly promising quarterback prospect in Williams under a cost-effective rookie deal.
In his final college football season, the 6-foot-1, 215-pound Williams demonstrated his prowess by throwing for 3,633 yards and 30 touchdowns with only five interceptions, while also amassing 136 rushing yards and 11 rushing scores.
Williams’ most impressive NCAA campaign occurred in 2022, where he recorded 4,537 passing yards and 42 touchdowns alongside just five interceptions, along with 382 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns.
Fields’ tenure with the Chicago Bears was marred by various challenges, including changes in coaching staff, offensive coordinators, and a subpar supporting cast with a struggling offensive line and a below-average defense.
The Steelers have informed Fields that he will serve as Russell Wilson’s backup to begin the 2024 season. However, Fields is expected to receive ample opportunities thereafter to demonstrate his potential as a Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback in the league.
