We are through the first three rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft. Ryan Poles has selected three players, but in reality, Montez Sweat, Keenan Allen, and Ryan Bates should also be included. I think with the addition of those three players using this year's draft value, Poles wasn't as concerned about acquiring more draft capital. Instead, he saw it as an opportunity to take the best players available regardless of what positions the Chicago Bears need (to a degree).
Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze going in the first round was fantastic. It could hopefully transcend the Chicago Bears into becoming a legitimate offense for once. The addition of Kiran Adegabije isn't bad either. He wouldn't have been my favorite option as I watched player after player fall to a spot in the draft I thought Poles might consider moving up. Instead, he held his ground and took a massive human being. Adegabije stands 6'6" and has an arm length of 36.5". Wow! I expect him to compete to be their swing tackle.
With only one pick left this year, it will be important for the Bears to find a player who can contribute this season. If Poles sees one of the top guys left on the board starting to slip, then he should definitely make a trade-up to get his guy (depending on the cost).
3 players who the Chicago Bears might trade up for
Brandon Dorlus, DT | Oregon
I was originally out on the idea of the Chicago Bears drafting a defensive tackle after we saw the massive run on the position in the second round. That was my thoughts regarding pick No. 75, Now that we are past the third round, Brandon Dorlus is now a target.
Dorlus is a versatile defensive tackle who has a solid burst off the line but isn't elite. He is extremely athletic and strong. He has a high motor and could fit in well under Matt Eberflus tutilidge.
Austin Booker, DE | Kansas
I find defensive end to be a bigger need than defensive tackle. The team needs to find an edge rusher who can line up opposite of Montez Sweat. There aren't many options left in this draft but Austin Booker is one guy worth moving up for.
Booker is young and had a breakout season in 2023. He might have been better suited if he stayed in school for one more year. He is raw and needs more time to develop. He finished with nine sacks last year but only played three games his freshman season. He has elite speed off the line but needs to keep his pad level lower more often.
Cam Hart, CB | Notre Dame
Finally, the one other player I could see Ryan Poles trading up for is Cam Hart out of Notre Dame. Hart had a 30 visit with the Bears and that seems to be a sign of who Poles targets. Some might be shocked by the idea of Poles drafting a corner - especially moving up for one. However, Hart brings important depth to a position that sees a few injuries that affect playing time each year.
Hart Has great flexibility and is able to mirror receivers with fluid hips. He is another athletic prospect -- something Poles and his staff covet. He has shown great coverage skills against some of the top talent in college football. I could see Hart contributing on special teams too - this could be how he makes an impact in his rookie season.
Honorable Mention: Trevor Keegan, IOL | Michigan
Trevor Keegan also had a 30 visit with the Bears.