The Chicago Bears did what they needed to do on Thursday night. Their victory over the Carolina Panthers ensured they would reach 1-8 on the season, the worst record in the NFL. Since the Bears hold their 1st round pick in 2024, Chicago controls the #1 overall pick. Given the state of things in Carolina, there is a realistic possibility they may not win another game. Even so, the competition is always fierce for that top spot. From the start, one of the biggest contenders was the Arizona Cardinals.
They were also 1-8 going into this weekend. That has since changed. The return of quarterback Kyler Murray saw the Cardinals pull off a stunning comeback over the Atlanta Falcons 25-23. That put the team at 2-8 on the season, meaning Carolina is the only team in the league with fewer than two wins. It gives the Bears some much-needed breathing space as the end of the season slowly draws closer. Given how Murray looked and their remaining schedule, it wouldn’t be a surprise if the Cardinals win a couple more games to fall out of contention entirely.
The Chicago Bears should be thrilled with this turn of events.
Not only will the #1 pick in 2024 give them a chance to select two highly-touted quarterback prospects in Caleb Williams and Drake Maye, but it also would enable them to draft elite receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. if they wish. This upcoming class is a strong one. It’s a far better year to hold the top pick than 2023. That is why GM Ryan Poles deserves loads of credit for pinpointing Carolina as the best target for his trade down last April. If that 1st rounder becomes the draft’s top pick, he could lay the foundation of something special in the near future.
Of course, nothing is set in stone. Arizona isn’t the only threat for that spot. They may not even be the biggest ones anymore. The New York Giants have become a disaster this season. Quarterback Daniel Jones tore his ACL. Their offensive line is banged up. They haven’t scored more than 16 points since Week 2. Their best hopes for wins down the stretch will be against the Commanders, Packers, Patriots, and Rams. Getting even one would be significant in the race since Carolina looks every bit as lost as they do.
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Barring something unexpected, the odds are the Chicago Bears will end up with at least a top-3 pick when the dust settles.
