Keenan Allen Trade Just Made Ryan Poles' Draft Plans Crystal Clear

It took a bit longer than some people would've liked, but Ryan Poles finally made a splash. After the opening of the new league year, the Chicago Bears GM struck with a calculated move, sending a 4th round pick to the cash-strapped Los Angeles Chargers for six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Keenan Allen. Though 31 years old, he remains one of the best in the NFL after over 1200 yards in only 13 games last season. Pairing him with D.J. Moore in this offense is a perfect setup for a young quarterback to step into. It also clarifies what the Bears will likely do come the start of the NFL draft.

For the past few weeks, it was evident Poles would likely take a quarterback #1 overall. That hasn't changed. The true uncertainty was what they'd do with the #9 pick. As free agency unfolded, many were certain it would be reserved for one of the top wide receivers on the board. With Allen in the mix, that is no longer the case. Examining the situation, it isn't a stretch to think one of two things will happen once the Bears go on the clock again.

Either they will take the best pass rusher on their board or trade down to collect more picks.

Keenan Allen helped the Bears make their draft plans clear.

Their biggest difficulty to this point has been finding a pass rusher to pair with Montez Sweat. With Yannick Ngakoue gone, they don't have anybody with starter capability to fill that void. After exploring a few names on the market, nothing materialized. With most of the big names picked clean, Poles will likely have to find his guy in the draft. There will be a few strong options at #9—Alabama's Dallas Turner and Florida State's Jared Verse headline the group. However, there is one notable concern.

Chicago only has four picks left in this draft.

That doesn't seem like something Poles would accept. Trading down from #9 would likely net the Bears a couple of solid picks. Couple that with the eventual trade of Justin Fields, and they should be able to refill their coffers somewhat. It comes down to whether the Bears think they can still land a difference-maker later in the 1st round. Either way, wide receiver is less likely of a concern with Keenan Allen in the fold. Expect a pass rusher or a trade to happen once Chicago is back on the clock early in the 1st round.