Chicago, Illinois – The Chicago Bears secured the coveted No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft after the Carolina Panthers suffered a loss in Week 17. This year, the Bears hold the Panthers’ first-round selection. The race for the No. 2 pick, however, continued until the final day of the regular season.
The Washington Commanders, amidst an eight-game losing streak, clinched the No. 2 spot after a 38-10 defeat against the Dallas Cowboys. Despite finishing with a 4-13 record, the Commanders earned a higher Round 1 pick due to their relatively easier schedule compared to the other teams with the same record (New England Patriots and Arizona Cardinals).
The top 18 picks of the draft have now been determined, with the remaining slots (Nos. 19-32) to be determined by playoff finish.
At the top spot, the Chicago Bears have a crucial decision to make. Justin Fields, the rookie quarterback who showed improvement towards the end of the season, poses a potential trade asset or a centerpiece to build around. Bears’ general manager, Ryan Poles, has the opportunity to either trade back from the No. 1 pick and accumulate additional assets or potentially select another quarterback to replace Fields. The Bears’ choice will undoubtedly impact the league this offseason.
The Washington Commanders, with the No. 2 pick, have a unique opportunity to address their longstanding need for a franchise quarterback. Caleb Williams and Drake Maye, two highly regarded college QB prospects, are within their reach. The new ownership group and potentially a new coaching staff will have the chance to select between these talented prospects and provide a boost to their offense.
Similarly, the New England Patriots, holding the No. 3 pick, could also find themselves starting anew. With a potential coaching staff transition and the looming absence of Bill Belichick, owner Robert Kraft has the opportunity to re-evaluate and rebuild the organization. Drafting a franchise quarterback at this position could be a crucial step in the Patriots’ reset.
The Bears’ decision at No. 1 holds significance for the Patriots as well. If Chicago opts for a receiver or trades down, New England could potentially select Marvin Harrison Jr. to bolster their offensive options. Alternatively, they might consider the top offensive tackle prospects in the draft, Olu Fashanu from Penn State or Joe Alt from Notre Dame.
In summary, the Chicago Bears secured the No. 1 pick, and the Washington Commanders and New England Patriots will have crucial decisions to make with the No. 2 and No. 3 picks, respectively. The draft order from picks 1-18 has been established, with the remaining slots to be determined based on the outcome of the playoffs.