2024 NFL Draft: Chicago Bears could find some mid-round playmakers at wide receiver

The NFL Draft is rapidly approaching and the Chicago Bears have the first overall pick. They will likely choose a quarterback with this pick, but the rest of the draft is still uncertain. The Bears also have the ninth-overall pick, which they could use to fill some of their needs. They could be looking to add another playmaker in this draft.

The Bears have worked hard adding offensive playmakers to support their quarterback, having traded for D.J. Moore last year and Keenan Allen this year. Despite these additions, they still lack depth at the receiver position and may look to add another receiver to compete for the third receiver position. Even with the added help, they lack depth at the position and could look to add one more receiver to compete for WR3.

Playmakers the Bears could target in mid-rounds

It is possible the Bears could look to add one of the top three receivers at pick nine. However, if those three are gone or if they choose to go in another direction, there are still a few receivers that could be available in round 3.

WR Ricky Pearsall, Florida

The Bears have recently acquired two new wide receivers in D.J. Moore and Keenan Allen. These players are known for their ability to get open and catch the ball. Adding someone like Ricky Pearsall to the mix could prove to be a recipe for success. Pearsall is an incredibly athletic player, which is something that Ryan Poles, the team's general manager, values in his players. Standing at 6'1" and weighing 189 pounds, Pearsall scored an impressive Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.91 out of 10. He can complement Moore and Allen well, as he is skilled at separating from defenders and making plays with the ball in his hands.

WR Devontez Walker, North Carolina

Adding a guy like Devontez Walker instantly elevates the wide receiver room. Walker has shown over time that his playmaking skills are undeniable. Similarly to Pearsall, Walker is 6'1" and 193 pounds, he also scored phenomenally with an RAS of 9.92. What stands out about Walker is his speed, he uses his speed to take the top off of defenses and to make plays after the catch. Although his route running has gotten some criticism, he fits the athletic mold that the Bears have targeted in the past and could be a very dangerous weapon if developed properly.

WR Jermaine Burton, Alabama

Jermaine Burton stands out to me as one of the most interesting prospects, due to the different opinions of his draft spot. Some have him graded as a near first-round pick, while others have him ranked as low as a fourth-round pick. While his landing spot in the draft is up for debate, there's no question about his exceptional athleticism. Similar to the first two players on this list, Burton is incredibly fast. He stands at 6'0" tall and weighs 196 pounds, with an RAS of 9.08. Burton is particularly skilled at chasing down the deep ball and has the speed to outrun defenders downfield. Although he's not as polished as the other two players when it comes to making plays after the catch, he has dependable hands and the speed to be a big threat on deep passes.

Only time will tell what the Bears decide to do, but with a deep wide receiver class, the Bears may try to leave the draft with another playmaking receiver. With all of these receivers listed above having an RAS over 9, they fit the draft day trend of Ryan Poles and could find themselves playing at Solider Field the next time they step on the field.

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