Three-Round Mock Draft for the Chicago Bears: Filling the Gaps

The Chicago Bears have been in a rebuild phase for several seasons, and with the 2024 NFL Draft approaching, the team is poised to make significant moves to solidify their future. After a promising finish to the 2023 season and a significant boost from an offseason of trades and acquisitions, the Bears have a number of key areas that need addressing. General Manager Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus will have their work cut out for them as they continue to build around young quarterback Justin Fields, bolster their defense, and fill key positional needs to return to playoff contention.

The Bears enter the 2024 draft with several important gaps to fill. They have assets to work with, including a high draft pick and a solid amount of salary cap space, enabling them to address multiple areas of concern, including offensive line, wide receiver, and defense. In this three-round mock draft, we will explore how the Bears can address these needs by targeting high-impact players who can make an immediate impact and set the team up for long-term success.

**Round 1 (Pick 1): **

Selection: Jalen Carter, Defensive Tackle, Georgia

The 2024 NFL Draft features several talented players, but for the Chicago Bears, the best player available for their needs in Round 1 is Jalen Carter. A dominant force on Georgia’s defensive line, Carter is arguably the best defensive player in the draft, and his selection would be a game-changer for the Bears’ defensive unit.

Why Jalen Carter?

The Chicago Bears have struggled to establish a consistent defensive line for years, and Carter’s presence would immediately shore up the heart of their defense. A force in both the run game and as a pass rusher, Carter possesses the strength, quickness, and football IQ to disrupt plays on a consistent basis.

Carter’s ability to clog up the middle and occupy blockers would create more opportunities for the Bears’ edge rushers to thrive, such as Trevis Gipson and Dominique Robinson. Carter can play across multiple defensive line positions and provide Matt Eberflus with the versatility he needs to scheme up different defensive looks.

Furthermore, the Bears are in dire need of an elite defensive tackle to pair with Justin Jones. Carter would instantly improve the Bears’ ability to stop the run while also providing a disruptive force in the passing game. The addition of Carter would give the Bears a cornerstone player to build around on defense for years to come.

Round 2 (Pick 33):

Selection: Paris Johnson Jr., Offensive Tackle, Ohio State

As the Chicago Bears continue to build their offensive identity around Justin Fields, improving the offensive line remains a top priority. In particular, the team needs to address the left tackle position to protect Fields’ blindside and allow him to thrive in the pocket. Paris Johnson Jr., a standout offensive tackle from Ohio State, is an ideal selection for the Bears in the second round.

Why Paris Johnson Jr.?

Johnson is one of the most polished and athletic offensive linemen in the 2024 draft. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 310 pounds, he has ideal size and strength to compete against the top pass rushers in the NFL. He has excellent footwork and balance, allowing him to handle edge rushers with ease. His ability to play both the left and right tackle positions gives the Bears flexibility in how they approach their offensive line.

Johnson would immediately step in as the team’s starting left tackle, filling one of the most critical holes on the roster. The Bears have invested heavily in Fields’ development, and protecting their young quarterback is paramount to his success. A strong and reliable left tackle will not only give Fields more time to make plays in the pocket but also help establish a strong run game behind Khalil Herbert and D’Onta Foreman.

By addressing the offensive line with a player of Johnson’s caliber, the Bears would be taking a major step toward creating a more balanced offense that can effectively complement Fields’ talents as a dual-threat quarterback.

Round 3 (Pick 64):

Selection: Josh Downs, Wide Receiver, North Carolina

While the Chicago Bears’ primary focus should be on improving their offensive line and defense, Justin Fields’ development hinges on surrounding him with capable pass catchers. The Bears have Darnell Mooney and Chase Claypool, but the depth at wide receiver could still be improved. Josh Downs, a dynamic wide receiver from North Carolina, could provide the spark the Bears need at the position.

Why Josh Downs?

Downs is an undersized but incredibly effective wide receiver who excels in the short-to-intermediate areas of the field. Standing at 5’10” and weighing 180 pounds, Downs is not the biggest receiver, but his agility, route-running, and ability to make defenders miss are top-tier. He was one of the most productive receivers in college football, compiling over 1,000 yards in each of the last two seasons for North Carolina.

What stands out about Downs is his ability to create separation with precise routes and quick footwork. In an offense that is looking to take full advantage of Justin Fields’ mobility and ability to extend plays, Downs could become a reliable safety valve. His quickness and ability to win in the slot would give Fields another trusted target, especially on quick slants and crossing routes that play to Fields’ strength as a playmaker.

Additionally, Downs has excellent hands and the ability to make contested catches, making him a reliable option in clutch situations. His ability to stretch the field vertically would complement Mooney’s speed on the outside, creating a well-rounded and potent receiving corps.

Other Considerations:

While these three players are ideal selections based on current needs, it’s important to note that the Chicago Bears could continue to make additional moves to address other positions in the draft. With several other key needs, such as cornerback and edge rusher, the Bears could look to add depth to those positions later in the draft or through trades.

Edge Rusher: While the Bears have some promising young pass rushers, adding another dynamic edge rusher could go a long way in improving their defense. Tyree Wilson (Texas Tech) or Isaiah Foskey (Notre Dame) could be potential options in later rounds or via trade.

Cornerback: The Bears have Jaylon Johnson as their top cornerback, but adding depth to the secondary is important. Players like Kelee Ringo (Georgia) or Clark Phillips III (Utah) could provide much-needed competition and depth to the cornerback group.

Linebacker: Another position the Bears may address is linebacker, especially with Roquan Smith having been traded last season. Adding a versatile linebacker to pair with Jack Sanborn could solidify the linebacker corps. Players such as Drew Sanders (Arkansas) or Trenton Simpson (Clemson) could be potential fits.