The Bears and the first pick in the draft: The NFL now waits on Ryan Poles — again
New York TimesCHICAGO — For the second consecutive year, Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles controls the NFL Draft. I feel like something special is going to happen.” When it comes to the first pick, the Bears’ offseason decision-making starts with quarterback Justin Fields. GO DEEPER An inside look at the Bears' defensive turnaround under Matt Eberflus Fields’ teammates heard the “We want Justin!” chants from the fans in Soldier Field. But trading the first pick for a massive haul could be the more appealing option, especially if Fields’ progress is something Poles and the team are starting to believe in. Moving the first pick could also provide the Bears with a potential pivot for the 2025 draft if they secure an extra first-rounder for that year — which they should — and Fields doesn’t blossom into one of the league’s best QBs next season.