If there is one thing veteran Chicago Bears fans know by now, it's to expect the unexpected in the NFL draft. Everybody thought they had the 2024 outlook figured out in the first eight picks before the Chicago Bears selected again at #9. Most media mock drafts followed the same pattern. Then the Atlanta Falcons dropped a bombshell, taking Washington quarterback Michael Penix at #8. There is a widespread belief that things could get even crazier this year with player grades all over the place from team to team.
Looking at how things have unfolded over recent weeks, two players could help the Bears reach their desired destination with the 10th overall pick. Jordan Reid of ESPN pointed them out.
Cornerback Will Johnson (Michigan) and edge rusher Jalon Walker (Georgia) are expected to have heavy turnouts at private workouts on April 14 and 17, respectively. The extent of what they will do at those workouts is unclear, but scouts are eager to see both in action. Johnson's long speed has been a lingering question mark for scouts. He was viewed as a potential top-five pick in the fall, but he missed the final six games of the season with a toe injury and sat out of Michigan's pro day with a hamstring injury. Despite that, he's still my No. 5 overall prospect and could go as high as No. 6 to the Raiders.
Johnson is the consensus #1 cornerback in this class and ranked 7th on NFL.com. Walker is considered the next Nolan Smith, who just dominated for Philadelphia last season. If both of them climb into the top 10, it will cause a cascade effect that benefits the Bears.
The Chicago Bears want the scenario to unfold as follows.
Right now, the team that could upend everything is Las Vegas at #6. Many have projected they will take Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. Some, though, aren't certain. Pete Carroll is a defensive guy and likes big, athletic corners. He's drafted one in the top 10 before (Devon Witherspoon). The Raiders defense has been a weak link for years. Johnson has Michigan connections to GM John Spytek too. As for Walker, many circle the Carolina Panthers at #8 as the ideal landing spot. His fit is obvious, and they badly need help with their pass rush. So, let's play it out like this.
- #1 - Cam Ward to TEN
- #2 - Travis Hunter to CLE
- #3 - Abdul Carter to NYG
- #4 - Will Campbell to NE
- #5 - Mason Graham to JAX
- #6 - Will Johnson to LV
- #7 - Tyler Warren to NYJ
- #8 - Jalon Walker to CAR
In this scenario, only the New Orleans Saints stand between the Chicago Bears and either Jeanty or Missouri tackle Armand Membou. Even if they were to take one of them, Ryan Poles would still end up with the other. Now you understand why this path is the one Bears fans should hope for. It holds the best possibility of them landing a top prospect.
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