Chicago Bears Reportedly Considering A Major Swerve In 1st Round

When discussing the Chicago Bears' first round plans, everybody is talking about what trade(s) the team will make. It's been surprising how little of the discussions have been about what player they choose. Most analysts agree GM Ryan Poles will likely focus on one of two positions. He'll either take a top defensive lineman or a top offensive lineman. That is the strength of the non-quarterback talent at the top of this draft class. It makes perfect sense considering the Bears' current needs.

However, everybody knows the draft is a time to expect the unexpected. What the experts think will happen doesn't always line up with what the teams intend to happen. That much is becoming true with the Bears. Jeff Hughes of Da Bears Blog has suggested for some time that Chicago will trade back. The most likely destination, at least at the moment, is the 9th overall pick held by Carolina. Initial projections have that spot being a good one to take a top offensive tackle. Hughes suggested the Bears might be eyeing somebody else. Somebody that they're quietly high on.

The Chicago Bears' interest in Smith-Njgiba is hardly surprising.

This team needs receiving weapons in the worst way for Justin Fields. Darnell Mooney and Chase Claypool both ended last season banged up. Depth was already a problem before that. Rumors are the Bears seek one more dynamic target to bring everything together. Smith-Njigba was dominant in 2021, going for over 1600 yards and nine touchdowns. Unfortunately, his 2022 season was derailed by injuries. That, along with questions about his speed, has led some to speculate he could slip down draft boards.

Those fears were quelled at the scouting combine, where the receiver put up some impressive numbers in athletic drills. He had the best times in both the three-cone and 20-yard shuttle of any receiver at the event. That was topped off by near-perfect execution during pass-catching sessions. The Chicago Bears might feel comfortable taking a risk on him after accumulating several extra picks in a trade down. His connection to Fields from their time at Ohio State together makes it even more logical.

Many felt Smith-Njigba was the best receiver in this class before the injury setbacks last year. Poles might be willing to take that gamble.