NEWSLETTER
Just because the Bears have already successfully traded for a WR1 doesn’t mean I’m going to stop wanting more weapons for Justin Fields.
Trading for D.J. Moore should be just the beginning of GM Ryan Poles’ new, modern offense. The next step in that process will come via the NFL Draft. In the 36 days between now and Draft Day, Poles will get a chance to put his eyes on all sorts of prospects. It began today at Ohio State’s pro day, where Poles and Head Coach Matt Eberflus (who himself is fond of WR1 types) were in attendance. And judging by eyes-on reports, there’s a real chance they came away impressed with Buckeyes receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who put together quite the outing catching passes from quarterback prospect (and OSU teammate) C.J. Stroud.
Observe:
So … not only was JSN catching everything thrown his way, he also put up a strong 40-yard dash time. That 1-2 punch should quiet any and all concerns about Smith-Njigba’s playing speed. And I imagine it helps put to sleep any issues surrounding his leaving the program to prepare for the NFL Draft. Because it sure looks like a wise decision to me.
Back in June, ESPN was projecting Smith-Njigba to go to the Bears with the second pick in the draft. As you’re well aware, much has changed in the last nine months. However, Chicago still could draft the Ohio State product with the ninth pick overall. Again, I understand the team just swung a trade for a legit WR1. And I am fully aware of the team’s needs along the offensive and defensive line. Heck, I’m fully cognizant of the possibility of the Bears going sideways and picking a cornerback with that ninth pick. But we saw GM Ryan Poles stick with his “best player available” methodology in last year’s draft. And we shouldn’t lose sight of it.
Especially since JSN already has a pre-draft visit lined up with the Bears:
Remember when Poles took a cornerback and safety with his first two picks last year? All the while the overwhelming belief was that there was no way he would take someone who wasn’t a receiver or offensive lineman. Fun times. Plus, with Chase Claypool and Darnell Mooney potentially hitting free agency after the 2023 season, bringing in another dynamic receiver who can help as a rookie (without being thrust into the action) and down the line isn’t the worst use of a draft pick.
Then again, the Bears could conceivably wait ’til next year for another drool-worthy Ohio State receiver prospect…
Marvin Harrison Jr. was a show stealer
Sure, there is an obvious focus on 2023 prospects when watching this year’s pro days. But there will be 2024 draft-eligible stars worth keeping tabs on. And at OSU’s pro day, Marvin Harrison Jr. catching passes from C.J. Stroud had everyone’s attention:
It is only right for Harrison to catch passes from Stroud during his pro day performance. That duo was dynamic for the Buckeyes last year. And there is nothing wrong with getting future draft prospects an early feel for what pro days are like. Harrison will enter the college football season as the top receiver prospect. In addition to being a top prospect with a first-round grade, Harrison has a familial pedigree with his dad being a Pro Football Hall of Famer. Go find some Marvin Harrison YouTube highlights. Although, maybe skip out on watching Super Bowl XLI clips.
Circling back to the younger Harrison, he projects to be the first receiver off the board in 2024’s draft. Giving teams a small taste is a bit of a tease, but I appreciate the effort in establishing yourself. With the Bears having two first-round picks next year, we have reason to keep an eye on Harrison. After all, what looks like a position of strength right now might not be one at this time next year. So while it is way too early to start mocking Harrison to the Bears in drafts, it isn’t too early to dream.
