There’s no denying the talent on the Chicago Bears. General Manager Ryan Poles has torn down the team and built it back up over the past few seasons. The recent acquisition of Keenan Allen has sent a clear message to the league that the Bears are poised to contend for a playoff spot. With a formidable defense, an ascending offensive line, and many star-studded weapons, things are shaping up for whoever the Bears decide to draft with their first overall pick, which presumably is Caleb Williams.
Teams who draft a quarterback with the first overall pick tend not to have an ideal situation. Whether it’s a lack of offensive talent or a defense incapable of providing good field position, it’s hard to be successful in year one as the No. 1 overall pick for quarterbacks. However, this prevailing narrative isn’t true for this year’s team with the No. 1 pick. The Bears have placed themselves in a unique situation where one trade has put them back on the clock. Along with the recent trade of QB Justin Fields, all signs point to the Bears drafting a quarterback. That quarterback is set up for immediate success in Chicago.
Caleb Williams Is Set Up for Unprecedented Success
Key Additions That Will Help Caleb Williams’ Development
At the start of NFL Free Agency, the Bears were the first team to sign a free agent. They signed D’Andre Swift to a three-year, $24 million contract with $15.3 million guaranteed. Swift is coming off a career year with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he rushed for 1,049 yards at an average of 4.6 yards per carry. The Bears were searching for a dependable running back that could provide an extra spark on offense.
To add on, the Bears decided to add not one but two versatile Centers to the roster. The Bears traded a fifth-round pick to the Buffalo Bills for Ryan Bates and signed former Los Angeles Rams Coleman Shelton to a one-year, 3 million dollar deal. Center was a glaring concern for the Bears last season, but with two capable options, Caleb Williams will have a solid foundation to work with.
Finally, the Bears surprised everyone by trading a fourth-round pick to acquire star wideout Keenan Allen from the Los Angeles Chargers. He was one of the best wide receivers last season and will be Caleb Williams’ security blanket. With a knack for finding openings in zone coverage, Allen possesses the unique ability to consistently create separation on nearly every play. Paired with D.J. Moore, the Bears have one of the NFL’s most daunting wide receiver duos. Moore’s proficiency in beating man coverage complements Allen’s strengths. These two will make Caleb Williams’ transition into the NFL much easier.
From NFL Live: The Bears have put (probably) Caleb Williams in a great position to succeed. LOVED the Keenan Allen addition. pic.twitter.com/9XClsJaiPt
— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) March 18, 2024
Real Expectations For The First-Overall Pick
The Bears have learned from other team’s mistakes. The Carolina Panthers lost a ton of high-value draft capital to acquire Bryce Young. Despite that, the Panthers failed to provide him with adequate offensive playmakers and offensive line support.
Caleb Williams should be excited because he has the opportunity to go to a franchise with the patience to bolster the talent around the quarterback to allow him to succeed on day one. Not to mention, the Bears will continue to add to the team via the NFL Draft.
Main Photo: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
