NEWSLETTER
For the first time since 2018, the Chicago Bears actually own their first-round pick in the upcoming draft, and I’m absolutely giddy about it. But what if I told you there is a chance the Bears could have *TWO* first-round picks in the 2021 NFL Draft?
It’s possible. A long-shot? Perhaps. But the Bears having two first-round picks is equal parts unconventional and plausible. And thanks to The Athletic’s Adam Jahns, it’s easier to see that path.
After drafting Virginia Tech offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw with the 20th pick in The Athletic’s beat writers draft, Jahns circles back to strike a deal with the Buffalo Bills. Jahns dangles the 52nd, 83rd, and 202nd picks, sends them to Buffalo, and uses the 30th pick to select Alabama quarterback Mac Jones.
Is it bold? Yes. But is it the type of move that an impatient and reactionary GM would make after whiffing on big swings elsewhere at the position? Also, yes.
But Jones could make it worth it:
https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1374444084568334342
https://twitter.com/nflnetwork/status/1374414973716209670
“Very comfortable, very smooth and very poised.” @movethesticks on what he saw today from @MacJones_10 👇 pic.twitter.com/n5hhCTNi5a
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) March 23, 2021
https://twitter.com/thecheckdown/status/1374446164104282119
And before you raise a finger to tell me how unrealistic it is to trade up in the NFL Draft, just know that this move isn’t unprecedented.
In 2018, the Ravens sent the 52nd and 125th picks in that draft, and a 2019 second-rounder to the Eagles. The return in that deal were picks Nos. 32 and 132. And with that 32nd pick, Baltimore chose Lousiville quarterback Lamar Jackson. Two seasons later, Jackson earned NFL MVP honors. So in other words, with great risk can come great rewards. Bears GM Ryan Pace might need to take a ridiculous risk in order to net a payoff with a reward that could ultimately save his job.
Following mock drafts is a treat. Keeping up with the ebbs and flows of which prospects are hot or not has its moments, too. And the wave of rumors, data, highlights, and everything else that could come at us ahead of draft day is enough to keep us busy. But if the Bears can finish Day 1 of draft weekend with a new quarterback, it would take the cake.
