The Chicago Bears are now picking at ninth-overall following their trade with the Carolina Panthers. The trade has been rumored to have been in the works since the 2023 NFL Combine. Ryan Poles made it known what he wanted in return for the first-overall pick when being interviewed. He said he was not in a rush and that he should have no problem landing a 2024 first-round pick and a 2025 first-round pick. Reports are that he could have had that, but opted for a 2025 second plus a player instead.
That player is of course, D.J. Moore. I'll be honest, I was a little shocked by the outcome. About a month ago, I projected a possible trade with the Panthers to include their first-round pick (9), both second-round picks (31 and 61), and their 2024 first and 2025 first. If any player was included, I assumed it would be Brian Burns. Instead, the Panthers sent their best-remaining offensive weapon in D.J. Moore. The team already traded Christian McCaffrey to the 49ers before the 2022 trade deadline.
The Chicago Bears trade down with the Carolina Panthers
Here is how the trade ended up -- not too far off from what I predicted and I'd rather have D.J. Moore than the full amount of draft picks I suggested.
Chicago Bears Receive:
- 1st Round Pick (9)
- 2nd Round Pick (61)
- 2024 1st Round Pick
- 2025 2nd Round Pick
- D.J. Moore, WR
Carolina Panthers Receive:
- 1st Round Pick (1)
If you are not excited by the haul that Ryan Poles received in this trade, you set your expectations way too high. Now that the trade has happened, I went to take a look and see who the Chicago Bears could be interested in selecting at nine.