The NFL Draft is less than a month away, and there is no clear indication of what the Bears will do with their first-round pick. There is a lot of talk surrounding Ashton Jeanty and Tyler Warren right now, and rightfully so. Both players are thought to be the best at their positions, so they would definitely fit the best player available pick. There is also noise around finding a Left Tackle to compete this year with Braxton Jones, as well as finding a young pass rusher to help this defense.
While all the options at pick ten are strong, what should the Bears do if they aren't particularly excited about any of the players available when it's their turn to select? In that situation, they could consider trading back. The decision largely depends on how the first nine picks unfold.
If the Bears do look to trade back, there are a few teams that should be on the watchlist.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The first team I can see the Bears trading back with is the Pittsburgh Steelers. This offseason, the Steelers acquired D.K. Metcalf, but a major question remains: who will be throwing the ball to him? There is considerable speculation about Aaron Rodgers potentially signing with the Steelers, which could very well happen. However, if that doesn’t pan out, they might look to trade up to draft a quarterback. With Cam Ward likely off the board by then, that would leave Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart as potential options. If the Steelers believe that either of these quarterbacks could start right away, a trade-up could be an option.
Seattle Seahawks
The second team to watch as a potential trade partner for the Bears is the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks need to find replacements for the production of Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf. While they could acquire a pass catcher without trading up, there is a strong possibility that either Tetairoa McMillan or Tyler Warren will be available at the 10th pick. For a team in need of a pass catcher, passing up on either of these prospects would be difficult.
Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos are among the top three teams likely to trade up in the draft. Their motivation for this trade is similar to that of the Seahawks: they need to acquire pass catchers to elevate their offense. Tyler Warren would thrive in a Sean Payton system, and I anticipate that if Warren is available, Payton will make the move to select him. Even if Warren is off the board, there are still strong options at wide receiver and running back, with players like McMillan and Omarion Hampton also potentially available.