The Chicago Bears have ten picks in the upcoming 2023 draft. History plays a big part in each of those spots they currently hold. Some have been more generous than others when it comes to producing future capable NFL players. It leads to an interesting question. If the Bears were to stay at those respective positions, what sort of talent have they yielded in the past? I did some digging on every pick since the draft’s inception in 1936. People might be shocked by some of the names that ended up on this list, particularly those that wore navy blue and orange.
9th overall
- Tyron Smith (2011)
- Brian Urlacher (2000)
- Bruce Matthews (1983)
53rd overall
- Davante Adams (2014)
- LeSean McCoy (2009)
- Mel Blount (1970)
61st overall
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- Allen Robinson (2014)
- Brian Dawkins (1996)
- Albert Lewis (1983)
64th overall
- Darnell Dockett (2004)
- Olin Kreutz (1998)
- Dave Deurson (1984)
103rd overall
- Trey Hendrickson (2017)
- Devonta Freeman (2014)
- Tom Fears (1945)
133rd overall
- Kam Chancellor (2010)
- Bruce Van Dyke (1967)
- Gary Larsen (1964)
136th overall
- Gibril Wilson (2004)
- Billy Shields (1975)
- Pete Barnes (1967)
148th overall
- Dre Greenlaw (2019)
- John Wade (1998)
- Ray Brown (1971)
218th overall
- Jordan Poyer (2013)
- Tom Nalen (1994)
- Sonny Randle (1958)
258th overall
- Curtis Duncan (1987)
- Rafael Septien (1977)
- Richie McCabe (1955)
The lesson? Chicago Bears have strong odds of having a good draft.
If they stay at #9 overall in the 1st round, GM Ryan Poles should be able to secure at least a solid starter. Recent history suggests it has a chance to be a Pro Bowler. While they may not hold pick again until 53rd overall, that cluster between #53 and #64 has been fertile ground for great players as well. Adam is likely headed for the Hall of Fame. Dawkins just made the Hall of Fame. Kreutz was one of the best centers of his era. It would be surprising if the Bears didn’t come out of their first four selections with two good players.
After that, it comes down to good luck more than anything. That is where Poles demonstrates a clear understanding. He has six selections in the final four rounds of the draft, including four in the 4th and 5th rounds. The Chicago Bears have enough ammunition to take several bites at the apple. If they can land two more good players in that stretch, this draft class will likely go down as a big success for the rebuilding franchise. It should be a fun few days.
