The Chicago Bears continue to make preparations for the upcoming 2020 NFL draft. It’s fixing to be the most unique in league history. One that will be conducted from remote locations over virtual setups by team GMs due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. This presents a major challenge for Ryan Pace, one he seems prepared to accept, even if the timing is difficult for him.
Many believe, with good reasons, that this offseason is the most important of his tenure in charge. Another failure to make the playoffs in 2020 could have dire consequences for his job status in Chicago. So he needs to have a strong draft. Something that could prove difficult without 1st, 3rd, or 4th round picks. This means he’ll have to focus on the most pressing needs for his roster. What many are wondering is whether a quarterback is on that shortlist.
After trading one pick to get Nick Foles last month, would Pace spend another to grab one in the draft? Some people don’t think so. However, there are reasons to think this is a definite possibility.
The 2021 outlook for Chicago Bears QB position is cloudy
As GM, Pace can’t look exclusively at the 2020 season. He must have one eye on the future. A glance at the 2021 situation brings questions. There is a possible scenario where the Bears won’t have a single quarterback under contract. Mitch Trubisky’s rookie contract expires next offseason and it’s unlikely the Bears exercise his 5th-year option by May 3rd. Not at the cost of a projected $24 million.
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Third-stringer Tyler Bray is back on a one-year deal. So he could be gone as well. As for Foles. Technically he’s under contract for three more years but the Bears installed a player option in it when they traded for him. This gives the veteran a choice to leave in free agency next year if he wishes. Perhaps to seek a better deal elsewhere since he took a reduction in base salary to come to Chicago.
This is why the Bears could seek a developmental QB in the draft.
It not only would give a coaching staff loaded with QB specialists something to sink their teeth into. It would also give the team a little long-term security at the position. Be it as a possible future starter or quality backup. The Bears have already met a few prospects who could end up being mid round picks. That feels like the most likely area they’d take one. Chicago has five selections on Day 3. They could add more if they happen to trade down early.
Signs continue to point in that direction. It’s just a matter of determining who their choice will ultimately be.
