The Bears plan to target 15 players on Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Following a good first round, the Chicago Bears hope to continue their strong 2024 NFL draft on Day 2. The Bears’ selections of quarterback Caleb Williams and wide receiver Rome Odunze lay the groundwork for a dynamic attack. Now, with only one choice on Day 2 (No. 75), Chicago may address other crucial positions on both sides of the ball, whether by sticking put or trading up.
We’ve identified 15 bright candidates who can have an instant impact. These guys are a combination of high-potential and NFL-ready prospects. Each of these players will help the Bears enhance their squad and get one step closer to their rebuilding goals. Here are 15 offensive and defensive players Chicago could target in the second and third rounds of the draft tonight.
October 14, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson (58) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Washington Huskies in the second half at Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig/USA TODAY Sports Powers-Johnson’s size and strength make him a formidable force in the running game. His ability to drive defenders off the line of scrimmage is thrilling, but he needs to work on his footwork and pass protection technique.
November 6, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Jer’Zhan Newton (94) reacts to a missed tackle in the third quarter at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn/USA TODAY Sports Newton’s size, strength, and pass-rushing ability make him an intriguing addition to the Bears’ strategy. He has the potential to be a dominant force on the interior, but he needs to expand his pass-rush abilities.
September 10, 2022; Seattle, Washington, USA: Portland State Vikings quarterback Dante Chachere (15) looks to throw while being harassed by Washington Huskies defensive lineman Bralen Trice (8) during the first half at Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear/USA TODAY Sports Trice’s length and agility off the edge may make him a valuable pass rusher in the Bears’ scheme. He is still inexperienced and needs to improve his technique and create a more diverse range of pass rush moves.
November 4, 2023; Clemson, South Carolina, USA; Clemson Tigers defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro (33) celebrates after making a tackle against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the fourth quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Ruinard/USA TODAY Sports Orhorhoro’s length and explosiveness make him a tough matchup for opposing offensive lines. He is versatile enough to play numerous defensive line positions, but he has to improve his play detection and response time.
October 21, 2023; Provo, Utah, USA. Kingsley Suamataia (78), a Brigham Young Cougars offensive lineman, prepares to block against the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the first half at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports. Suamataia’s speed and agility make him an excellent match for the Bears’ outside running zone system. His ability to reach the second level and create running lanes is excellent, but he needs to gain more weight and strength.
October 28, 2023; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive end Brandon Dorlus (3) celebrates after defeating the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Creveling/USA TODAY Sports Dorlus’ explosiveness, power, and drive make him an excellent match for the Bears’ one-gap, penetrating defense. His ability to shoot gaps and disrupt plays in the backfield makes him an invaluable player. To improve, he must enhance his pass rush technique.
December 2, 2023; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Chris Braswell (41) reacts in the first quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs during the SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer/USA TODAY Sports Braswell’s power and technique make him an effective run defender. His ability to set the edge and contribute to the pass rush would help Montez Sweat on the opposite side of the defensive line. To improve, he needs to expand his repertoire of pass rush moves.
March 3, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Illinois offensive lineman Isaiah Adams (OL01) attends the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports Adams’ outstanding quickness and agility make him an excellent fit for the Bears’ outside zone rushing style. His ability to go to the second level and perform reach blocks has the potential to change the game. He needs to build more strength and enhance his anchor against strong rushers.