GM Ryan Poles has always said his primary focus when acquiring players is value. He wants to get the best value possible with every free agent signing and draft pick that he makes. That is why it can be difficult to predict what he will do for the Chicago Bears going into the 2023 draft. Everybody was convinced last season he would focus on wide receivers. Then he doubled down on defensive backs. Perhaps another swerve could be coming despite the hot rumors that they’re targeting either a defensive tackle or an offensive tackle.
However, Jordan Reid of ESPN thinks there is a possibility it might go a different way. He decided to take a look at the draft if teams went by value. Based on his projections, the Bears wouldn’t take a lineman on either side of the ball. Instead, they’d go right back to where they started last year.
Reid’s pick that gets best value: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
Witherspoon is the top remaining player on my board. Yes, there are bigger needs, but adding an aggressive corner to coach Matt Eberflus’ defense would help the continued retool on that side of the ball. Witherspoon’s instincts and polished technique fit in well here.
It’s not as crazy as it sounds. The Bears do have a hold at the other outside corner spot opposite Jaylon Johnson. Also, don’t forget Johnson is in the last year of his rookie contract. If Poles isn’t keen on paying him an expensive new deal, then taking a top corner at #9 would be logical. Don’t forget he also loves taking local products whenever he can.
The Chicago Bears seem keen on moving down.
Forget positional preference. Everything points to Poles wanting to unload the 9th pick and trade down a second time, hoping to secure at least one more Day 2 pick. Presuming that’s true, then this assessment matters little. Still, there is a possibility the Bears won’t be able to move down. In such a case, one can’t completely dismiss the idea. If Jalen Carter is off the board, it’s possible Poles may value somebody like Witherspoon over any of the available offensive tackles. Remember, he mentioned corner as one of the premium positions in the NFL.
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One thing is certain. If the Chicago Bears made that move, it would cause quite an uproar. Few fans would embrace the idea of another corner when both lines are still in such bad shape. Then again, if Witherspoon became a great player, those complaints wouldn’t last long. Poles has made it clear time and time again that he isn’t focused solely on 2023. His goal is to build for the long term. If he think Witherspoon will have a long career in the NFL, it’s hard to fault his thinking.
You know … if none of your crappy wide receivers can get open for more than .0003 seconds YOU HOLD THE BALL SO YOU DONT THROW INTs … do you get that GINA?
Thopter is right. He’s going to the forthcoming top team in the NFC North, the Detroit Lions. Bout damn time.
He would solidify our DBs for several seasons
I have watched almost every Illinois FB game this year. I have little doubt Witherspoon would be the BPA, if he slipped to #9. I would not be unhappy if the Bears picked him there. Ideally, my preference would be to trade down a few spots or to the mid-teens at lowest, pick up the best OT available, and get another 2nd round pick. Too many holes to fill on both sides of the trenches.
What’s that “Anne”. I can’t hear you with my ‘bear claw’ in your mouth.
(yes, I know she’s a BOT…. but 220$ she must be servicing Cheeseheads… they MUST pay a premium since they smell like CHEEEEEEZE!)
LOL.. I know I’m immature but it’s Friday afternoon & I figured all my fellow commenters need a little chuckle.
BEARs .500 in 2023 & playoff relevant in 2024.
p.s 3 1’s in 2024… DAaaaaaamn I like the sound of that but I’d rather see “progress” 2023 with an extra 2nd rounder from Pitts. (and we take Wright @ RT)