The Chicago Bears likely want to trade the #1 overall pick. However, that entirely depends on other teams’ thoughts about the incoming 2023 quarterback class. The only reason a team would give away a large haul of picks for that spot would be landing what they believe to be a franchise QB. Depending on who you ask, the opinions of this group are mixed. Some think guys like Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud can absolutely be franchise-changing passers. Others feel each has too many question marks to justify moving up for.
Draft insider Charlie Campbell of WalterFootball has heard some interesting whispers down at the Senior Bowl. From what he understands, multiple teams are wary of moving up for Young or Stroud. Young has legitimate size concerns, and some feel Stroud doesn’t exude natural leadership capability. However, some of those sources admitted there might be no choice. The top four spots are littered with teams ready to take a quarterback. So if you want to get the QB of your preference, calling the Bears is your best shot.
It also appears another QB name is generating buzz as the off-season unfolds.
“As a result of these issues, multiple sources from a number of teams say they do not think Young or Stroud is worthy of giving up the farm for in future draft picks to move up high in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. They see too much risk in either of them as a prospect to be willing to give up a huge haul in a trade. However, it only takes one team to feel differently and be desperate enough to make such a move. Additionally, given that the Texans – at No. 2 – and the Colts – at No. 4 – clearly need quarterbacks, a third team knows it has to jump to the first or third pick of the 2023 NFL Draft to get one of those signal-callers…
…Similar to Denver, another team that has a new head coach and questions at quarterback is the Carolina Panthers. New head coach Frank Reich wants stability at the position, but Carolina has not had that since the injuries added up to cut short Cam Newton’s career. Teddy Bridgewater, Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield have proven not to be the answer for the Panthers. From speaking with sources, it sounds like the Panthers really like Kentucky quarterback Will Levis.”
The Chicago Bears don’t have to force the market.
It should come to them. The number of alternatives isn’t as numerous as some might think. Tom Brady retired, so that takes a top veteran off the board. Lamar Jackson and Daniel Jones are expected to stay with their current teams. The same is true for Geno Smith. That leaves Aaron Rodgers and Derek Carr as the only proven QBs that can legitimately help a team win without needing to be carried. If both end up with new teams that pick outside the top 10, the desperation will start to take over. Houston, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Atlanta, and Carolina all don’t have definitive options at quarterback.
One of the top three is guaranteed to go #2 to Houston. There will be genuine fear from somebody that it’s the guy they want. That is when the phone calls to Halas Hall will get serious. The Chicago Bears have so much leverage in this situation. Either make them an offer they can’t refuse or potentially watch the quarterback you desire go play for Houston. Much of this hinges on the impression Young and Stroud make in interviews over the next few months. If they hit home runs, the Bears’ phone lines might burn out.
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