NFC Scout makes a bold prediction about the Chicago Bears 2024 NFL Draft plans

The 2024 NFL Draft will begin in earnest for the Chicago Bears when they are on the clock with the ninth overall selection.

Yes, the Bears have the first pick in the draft but it's no secret that selection will be Caleb Williams.

Sure, the Bears will be keeping a close eye on the developments of the selections made between the second and eighth picks but the first important decision will likely come when they are on the clock for the second time in the first round.

A debate will be had regarding whether the Bears keep the pick and make a selection, Rome Odunze being the leading possibility, or if the team will trade back as a way of adding more selections during the back half of the draft.

The belief from an NFC area scout, as told to ESPN, is that the Bears will indeed be trading out of the ninth overall selection.

""I'd be shocked if they make that pick at nine," an NFC area scout said. "[Bears GM Ryan] Poles loves to move around and build through the draft, and that roster still needs help in some spots." Don't be surprised if Chicago moves back, adds more draft capital and takes the best defensive end available wherever it lands. Laiatu Latu (UCLA) and Jared Verse (Florida State) are two options who would help off the edge in Chicago."

- ESPN

One thing is clear, the Bears shouldn't be trading back just because of the fact that Poles loves to be active during the draft. The Bears have an opportunity to add a second blue-chip talent to their roster with the ninth overall selection and given the dropoff in talent after the fourth round, there should be little concern over the fact that they have no selection after the fourth round.

The only scenario where a trade-down may be possible is if none of Marvin Harrison Jr, Rome Odunze, or Malik Nabers are on the board when the Bears are on the clock at No. 9. If that's the case, the argument can be made for a trade down but that should be the only scenario where that is discussed.