how many draft picks do the bears have this year

2 min read 27-04-2025
how many draft picks do the bears have this year

The Chicago Bears are entering the 2024 NFL Draft with a significant number of draft picks, a result of shrewd trades and a roster needing bolstering. Knowing exactly how many picks they possess and their positions is crucial for any Bears fan wanting to understand their team's potential rebuild and future direction. This article will break down the Bears' draft pick situation for the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Bears' 2024 Draft Pick Breakdown

Determining the exact number of picks is tricky because compensatory picks aren't finalized until later in the offseason. However, we can definitively say the Bears currently possess a solid amount. We'll detail what we know:

  • Confirmed Picks: The Bears definitely have their own selections in each round, barring any unforeseen trades before the draft. This is a significant starting point, giving them a foundation for building their team.

  • Potential Compensatory Picks: The NFL awards compensatory picks based on the previous season's free agency losses and gains. The Bears' free agency activity could result in additional compensatory picks, boosting their overall total. The exact number and round of these compensatory picks won't be known until sometime in early spring.

  • Trade Possibilities: The Bears are not afraid to wheel and deal. General Manager Ryan Poles has shown a willingness to use draft picks strategically to acquire players they believe can enhance the team immediately or in the future. Therefore, the number of picks the Bears start with may change before the draft even begins.

Why So Many Picks Matter For The Bears

Having a large number of draft picks is exceptionally important for Chicago for several reasons:

Roster Rebuilding:

The Bears are in the midst of a rebuild, focusing on strengthening the roster and developing young talent. Multiple draft picks provide opportunities to select players at various positions, addressing weaknesses and improving overall depth.

Flexibility:

Numerous picks offer flexibility on draft day. The Bears can use this leverage to move up or down in the draft to acquire a specific player or accumulate more picks. This strategic maneuvering is essential to maximizing the value of their draft capital.

Finding Hidden Gems:

Later-round picks can unearth unexpected talent. Many successful NFL players have been found in the middle and later rounds of the draft. The Bears' high number of picks greatly increases their chances of finding these diamonds in the rough.

Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Bears Draft Picks

While the final count of the Chicago Bears' draft picks for 2024 won’t be known until closer to the draft, it is guaranteed to be impressive. This large number of selections offers a significant opportunity to continue building a strong foundation for future success. This abundance of picks means that Bears fans should be excited to see how General Manager Ryan Poles uses these assets to shape the team's future. Stay tuned for updates as the draft approaches!