Bears Draft Evaluation: Comprehensive Grades for Each New draft Pick

If you missed the 2024 NFL draft and want to catch up on the Chicago Bears' selections, this overview is just for you. General Manager Ryan Poles significantly overhauled the offense, added a promising pass rusher, and chose the top punter available. He achieved many of his goals and brought considerable talent to the team, likely leaving the Bears' management very satisfied with the draft outcomes.

While it may seem premature to grade players who haven't yet played in the NFL, we can still assess their potential based on available information. Here's a detailed report card for each of the Bears' draft picks this year.

**NO. 1 OVERALL: CALEB WILLIAMS - QUARTERBACK - USC**
Caleb Williams, the most highly acclaimed quarterback of this draft, was a definite pick for the Bears for quite some time—and for good reason. Known for his elusiveness and ability to make plays, Williams has drawn comparisons to Patrick Mahomes. He has demonstrated not only impressive scrambling skills but also the ability to make anticipatory throws. However, he did fumble more frequently in 2023 than in previous years. Over three years, Williams played 37 games, completing 66.9% of his passes for 10,082 yards, 93 touchdowns, and only 14 interceptions, alongside 966 rushing yards and 27 rushing touchdowns. He has won the Heisman, was named Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year, and an All-American in 2022.

**Grade: A+**


**NO. 9 OVERALL: ROME ODUNZE - WIDE RECEIVER - WASHINGTON**
Rome Odunze, the third wide receiver picked, is set to become the Bears' key deep threat. In 2023, he led receivers with 100 targets in several categories, including 1,639 yards, 74 first downs, and 21 contested catches. Odunze's arrival also future-proofs the team's receiver position as current receiver Keenan Allen approaches the latter stages of his career.

**Grade: A+**

**NO. 75 OVERALL: KIRAN AMEGADJIE - OFFENSIVE TACKLE - YALE**
Kiran Amegadjie, with his notable length and athleticism, is expected to enhance the Bears' offensive line depth. While he may not start immediately, his development could be crucial given the physical demands on NFL linemen.

**Grade: A-**

**NO. 122 OVERALL: TORY TAYLOR - PUNTER - IOWA**
Tory Taylor, known for his strong punting ability, left Iowa holding several NCAA records. With an average of 46.3 yards per punt and a significant number of punts pinning opponents within their 20-yard line, Taylor is set to replace Trenton Gill, who had a less impressive season last year.

**Grade: B+**

**NO. 144 OVERALL: AUSTIN BOOKER - DEFENSIVE END - KANSAS**
Although Austin Booker had limited college playing time, his productivity, including eight sacks and a high pressure rate, was notable. The Bears anticipate that Booker will develop further, particularly by gaining more experience and physical mass.

**Grade: B+**

Overall, the Bears' 2024 draft picks show a strong potential to enhance the team's performance across various positions, setting a solid foundation for future seasons.