The 2024 NFL Draft is in the books and there is no argument to be had with the success that the Chicago Bears had.
The expectation was that the 2024 NFL Draft would be the defining moment of Ryan Poles' tenure as the team's general manager and it is safe to say that through his use of the draft picks he had available, Poles has established a new era for the Bears.
How the Chicago Bears used their 2024 NFL Draft Picks.
Round 1, Number 1. - QB Caleb Williams
Caleb Williams is now the most important person at Halas Hall. Poles' tenure will be deemed a success or failure based on the success that Williams has.
Round 1, Number 9. - WR Rome Odunze
With his handpicked quarterback now in place, Poles wants to make sure everyone knows that how the Bears are doing business now is far different than how the team has operated in the past. The selection of Rome Odunze proves that as Poles elected not to trade back and selected a player in Odunze who can not only elevate the play of Williams but emerge as one of the best rookie wide receivers in the NFL.
Round 2, Number 40. - DE Montez Sweat*
The Bears traded this pick to the Washington Commanders for Montez Sweat at the NFL Trade Deadline last season. Sweat has become a cornerstone of the Bears' defensive line and his four-year contract extension should represent the team's current contention window.
Round 3, Number 75. - OT Kiran Amegadjie
Kiran Amegadjie is not a candidate to start on the Bears' offensive line right away but has the size and traits to a potential replacement for Braxton Jones in a season or two.
Round 4, Number 110. - WR Keenan Allen*
The Bears traded this pick to the Los Angeles Charges for All-Pro wide receiver Keenan Allen. Allen is coming off a career season with the Chargers in 2023 and already has a connection with Williams.
Round 4, Number 122. - P Tory Taylor
Every other draft season, there is a punter that comes along that warrants a team using a mid-round selection. Taylor is that punter and his wizardry with punts could prove to be a secret weapon.
Round 5, Number 144 - DE Austin Booker
The Bears originally traded this pick to the Buffalo Bills for Ryan Bates, who is in line to be the team's starting center in 2024. In giving up their 2025 fourth-round pick, the Bears got the pick back and selected Austin Booker. Booker's addition to the defensive line is much needed.
Round 6, Number 184 - OL Dan Feeney*
The Bears traded this pick to the Miami Dolphins prior to the 2023 season for Dan Feeney. Feeney struggled when inserted as the team's center and depending on how the roster shakes out, could be a candidate to be cut during the Pre-Season.
Round 7, Number 231 - WR N'Keal Harry*
Prior to the 2022 season, the Bears traded this pick to the New England Patriots for change-of-scenery candidate N'Keal Harry. Harry played in 7 games for the Bears during the 2022 season, totaling 116 receiving yards on 7 receptions. Harry left the Bears via free agency after the 2022 campaign and spent 2023 with the Minnesota Vikings.