If Odunze is not available at No. 9, the Bears could consider trading down for players such as Texas defensive tackle Byron Murphy II, LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas, Jr., Alabama edge rusher Dallas Turner, or Penn State offensive tackle Olu Fashanu. While a wide receiver like Odunze would be an exciting addition, the Bears’ weak pass rush has been a major concern in recent seasons.
The team’s top pass rusher, Montez Sweat, had only five sacks last year, and no significant additions were made in free agency. Therefore, drafting a pass rusher like Nolan Verse, who has had nine sacks in each of the last two seasons, could be a more strategic choice. Despite the allure of top wide receivers like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Malik Nabers, it is likely that all three will be gone by the time the Bears pick ninth.
Coach Matt Eberflus has emphasized the importance of a star defensive tackle in his defense. If Gervon Dexter is unavailable, Murphy could be a viable option. Ultimately, the Bears’ decision at No. 9 will depend on the availability of their preferred targets and their assessment of the team’s most pressing needs.
