The Bears are sitting in a prime position heading into the 2023 NFL draft, where there should be no shortage of teams inquiring about trading up to the No. 1 pick.
And despite rumors running rampant, Chicago appears more than content to continue with quarterback Justin Fields, who emerged as one of the league’s most electric players despite a lack of talent around him.
The most popular trade partner in this mock draft season has been the Colts, who have made it clear they want to draft and develop a young quarterback after a string of failed attempts with aging veterans.
In a new mock draft from The Athletic, James Boyd has the Colts doing “whatever it takes” to move up and land the quarterback of their choosing. In this deal to move up to No. 1, Indianapolis sends the No. 4 pick, No. 35 pick, a fifth rounder (from Buffalo) and the Colts’ 2024 first-round selection.
Colts general manager Chris Ballard was asked at the end of the season if he’d “move heaven and earth” and trade up to No. 1 to select a franchise quarterback in this year’s draft. Ballard’s response? “Yes, I’d do whatever it takes,” but only if he felt one clearly rose above the rest. In this case, that player is Young.
Colts owner Jim Irsay sang Young’s praises during new head coach Shane Steichen’s introductory press conference, which is certainly notable. Irsay could either be showing his hand with Young or disguising interest in C.J. Stroud or Will Levis. But one thing that’s clear: It’s quarterback or bust for Indianapolis.
If the Colts fall in love with one of these quarterbacks — and doesn’t want to risk their division rivals, the Texans, leap frogging them — they’ll make the trade for No. 1.
That’s best-case scenario for the Bears. Not only would they land prime draft capital — including two first rounders — but they’ll still be in a position to land one of the two top defensive prospects in Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter or Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson Jr.
