Bears GM Ryan Poles declines to announce Caleb Williams as the first overall pick ahead of the NFL Draft.
All eyes in the NFL world are currently focused on the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, where the Chicago Bears hold the number one overall pick, acquired through a trade with the Carolina Panthers. The expectation is that the Bears will select former USC Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Caleb Williams. However, Bears general manager Ryan Poles has refrained from confirming this speculation, stating, “We know what we’re gonna do, but everyone’s gonna have to wait until Thursday.”
The quarterback position for the Bears became vacant after the decision to trade former starter Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Fields had a mixed tenure in Chicago, struggling with injuries but also showing glimpses of promise. It’s anticipated that Fields will serve as a backup to Russell Wilson in Pittsburgh.
Caleb Williams, had he been eligible for the draft last year, would likely have been the top pick in 2023. His impressive skills and performance at Oklahoma and later at USC under head coach Lincoln Riley have garnered significant attention from NFL scouts.
While there was some speculation about the Bears potentially keeping Fields and trading the top pick, the trade with Pittsburgh solidified their intention to select Williams.
In preparation for Williams’ anticipated arrival, the Bears have made additions to their roster, including the signing of former Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen to bolster their receiving corps.
