There is some excitement surrounding the Chicago Bears heading into the 2024 season. For the first time in a while, there are some expectations that the team could make some noise once the regular season rolls around.
A big reason for that is their new franchise quarterback, Caleb Williams. The first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft is a highly regarded prospect that some evaluators believe will turn into a star.
It should come as no surprise that Seth Walder of ESPN has named Williams being selected as the Chicago Bears’ biggest move this offseason. The NFL is a quarterback-driven league and the franchise is hopeful they have found an upgrade after another shaky tenure with Justin Fields.
Overall, the 2024 offseason was one that Walder liked a lot. He gave the Chicago Bears a B+. Only five teams received higher grades than that, as the team is positioned to make a major leap up the standings.
The move that Walder liked the most was signing cornerback Jaylon Johnson to a long-term deal. Johnson’s future with the franchise was up in the air as trade rumors surrounded him. The franchise tag was placed on him and he received nearly $44 million guaranteed but a fair $19 million annually.
Weapons on offense were upgraded in a big way. Keenan Allen was acquired from the Los Angeles Chargers and the No. 9 overall pick was used on Rome Odunze. They will join D.J. Moore, creating one of the best wide receiver trios in the NFL.
But, the move Walder disliked the most also came on offense. The Chicago Bears signed running back D’Andre Swift, giving him $16 million guaranteed, despite some concerns with some of his advanced stats. Releasing guard Cody Whitehair wasn’t a move Walder loved either.
But, the positives outweighed the negatives for the Chicago Bears this offseason. This is a team on the rise as general manager Ryan Poles has made the most of the assets he has had to work with the last two offseasons. Now, it is up to head coach Matt Eberflus to make it work on the field.
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