Post-Justin Fields Chicago Bears' Mock Draft Maps Out a Winning Blueprint with Caleb Williams at the Helm

Jared Verse feels like a Chicago Bear. He would make an excellent running mate for Sweat. Photo Credit: Jared Verse IG

The Chicago Bears, in a post-Fields era, are on the cusp of a transformative season, and this mock draft has been crafted to boost their chances of success in the assumed... Caleb Williams Era.

In the 2024 off-season, the Chicago Bears added several free agents to their roster. Notable signings include TE Gerald Everett, DB Jonathan Owens, OL Matt Pryor, QB Brett Rypien, DB Kevin Byard, and OL Ryan Bates. Additionally, DB Jaylon Johnson was re-signed/extended for updated additions visit: (https://www.chicagobears.com/news/chicago-bears-2024-free-agency-news-tracker-signings-extensions-reports-players). The following selections are meant to compliment the work the Bears have done so far in free agency.

With the first overall pick, it's clear the future lies with quarterback Caleb Williams from USC. This A+ decision puts a dynamic and explosive leader at the helm, offering Bears fans a new beacon of hope. No, the Bears didn't get the best value for Justin Fields, but they did clear the room and open up the space for this generational talent come in with the drama of battling with Chicago Bears fan favorite Fields.

Moving on to the ninth pick, defense gets a jolt of adrenaline with Jared Verse, the edge rusher from Florida State. His B- grade belies the raw potential he brings; Verse is a game-changer, the kind of disruptive force the Bears' front line needs to challenge offenses across the NFL. He ran a faster 40 time than his WR teammate Keon Coleman and he's athletic enough to beat him one on one in basketball. The Bears haven't had a guy like Verse in a while prior to the trade for Sweat. Now they have two great pass rushers.

The YAC King made some noise at the Senior Bowl and would be a perfect for Williams. Photo Credit: Senior Bowl Staff

The third round, pick number 75, sees the Bears target a skill position with the selection of Malachi Corley, a Western Kentucky wide receiver. His B+ grade is indicative of his ability to stretch the field and make those crucial contested catches, which will be vital for Williams' success. The YAC King rounds out a wide receiver crops that now has Kennan Allen and DJ Moore. The addition of Corley nearly completes the amazing talent upgrade in the WR room. No expert will be able to say that Poles didn't give Williams a chance to succeed. Poles continues to surround him with talent on the outside.

The strategy around the trade was clear and calculated: The Bears traded away their fourth-round pick (R4:122) to the New Orleans Saints—a franchise known for making upward moves nearly every year. In return, the Saints provided the Bears with two later picks: a fifth-rounder (R5:150) and a sixth-rounder (R6:190). This maneuver was a deliberate tactic to gather more picks, allowing the Bears to add more playmakers to their roster.

With the newly acquired fifth-round pick (R5:150), the Bears continued to build for the future, selecting Jordan Travis, a developmental quarterback from Florida State. With a grade of A-, Travis brings depth and competition to the position. Travis is a clear bargain here in the fifth round. He was one of the best in the country prior to his injury. It's always great to have a great talent on the roster. His presence will pose no threat to Williams, but it will instantly give the Bears a solid addition to the QB room.

With their sixth-round pick (R6:190), the Bears chose Anthony Gould, a wide receiver from Oregon State. His grade of B and his notable speed offer the potential for big plays, something the Bears were keen to add to their offense. This moves completes the transformation of the WR crops in Chicago. Gould is a burner and his speed will open up the offense for Moore, Allen, and Corley to dominant underneath.

Every pick in this mock draft is meticulously aimed at constructing a Chicago Bears team not just to compete, but to dominate. The inclusion of a potential franchise QB, a powerful edge rusher, a versatile receiver corps, and the astute trade to accumulate more talent demonstrates a franchise gearing up for triumph.

In the comments tell me if you would have made different choices.

The Pittsburgh Steelers 1st Mock After Acquiring Justin Fields and Russell Wilson - Weapons Galore

Steelers Nation and Football Fans Alike! Today, we’re breaking down the Pittsburgh Steelers’ mock draft picks with an eye on strategic fortification and long-term planning. This draft reflects not just a response to last season’s challenges but a proactive approach to upcoming seasons.

Let’s dive into the details.

First Round, Pick 20: Starting off strong with Brock Bowers out of Georgia. This is a pick that screams versatility and offensive firepower. Bowers is not just any tight end; he’s a multifaceted weapon that Russell Wilson will find invaluable. The Steelers are sending a clear message with this pick: the offense is about to become a lot more dynamic. Grade: A+

Second Round, Pick 51: Next up, we have Braden Fiske, a defensive interior from Florida State. This pick is about strengthening the core, quite literally. Fiske is a powerhouse who can anchor the defensive line, disrupt plays, and apply pressure that’s been missing. It’s a solid pick that fortifies the Steelers’ defensive front. Grade: A-

Third Round, Picks 84 and 98: On the offensive line, the Steelers select Patrick Paul from Houston and Cooper Beebe from Kansas State. These selections are strategic investments in the future of the team’s offensive infrastructure. Protecting the quarterback is paramount, and these picks signal a commitment to enhancing pocket security and running lanes. While Beebe might seem like a reach to some, remember, development is key in these middle rounds. Grades: B+ for Paul, D- for Beebe.

Fourth Round, Pick 119: Javon Baker, wide receiver from UCF, is a name to remember. With the departure of Diontae Johnson, Baker’s role cannot be understated. He’s got the hands, the routes, and the speed. This pick could very well be the steal of the draft. Grade: A+

Sixth Round, Picks 178 and 195: Rounding out with Austin Reed, quarterback from Western Kentucky, and Frank Gore Jr., halfback from Southern Miss. Reed is an intriguing prospect who could develop into a valuable asset under Wilson and Fields. Gore Jr. brings legacy and potential depth to the running game. These are smart, low-risk, high-reward picks. Grades: A+ for Reed, C- for Gore Jr.

In summary, the Steelers’ draft strategy is a masterclass in balancing immediate needs with future prospects. They’ve addressed critical positions with an eye towards creating a more dynamic and resilient team. This is a franchise thinking several moves ahead, setting the stage for success in the upcoming season and beyond.”

Channeling Ryan Wilson’s depth of analysis and forward-thinking perspective, this mock draft breakdown highlights the strategic nuances of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ selections, painting a picture of a franchise poised for rejuvenation and long-term competitiveness.

Prelude to a Championship Clash

Photo: PFL

In the virtual press conference for Bellator championship series – Belfast, the main event participants were politely confident about their skills and the expected outcome. Corey “Overtime” Anderson (17-6, 8 KO's) and Karl Moore (12-2, 2 KO's, 5 Subs) both said they are treating this like another fight. This is no ordinary main event, as it is the first since a recent reorganization and it’s for the Light Heavyweight Title vacated recently by Vadim Nemkov.

For Anderson it’s his third shot at gold. The first time, it was a no contest due an accidental clash of heads. In the press conference, the Joliet, Illinois native admitted the success he found in the initial encounter with Vadim Nemkov caused him to take things less seriously in the rematch. Something he vowed to never do again as Vadim beat Anderson for 25 minutes.

In front of his friends and family in Chicago at the Wintrust Arena, Overtime left, defeated. Making things worse, the loss meant he would not collect the $1 million check that accompanied the Light Heavyweight tournament victory.

The third time may be a charm, or it may be three strikes and you’re out for the MMA veteran. This time instead of being in front of his adoring fans, he will be in enemy territory as Belfast on Karl Moore takes the stage for the biggest fight of his life. Fighting at home can be difficult with the demands of family and friends looking for tickets. The self-proclaimed hermit, Moore, said when it’s fight time he doesn’t look at his phone so he does not see the request. Karl stays focused on the task at hand which is being dominant over five rounds. If victorious he will be the first championship of a major organization to come from SBG Ireland since Conor McGregor.

Video courtesy of the PFL

The crowds in Ireland are often electric as and Moore believes this will be to his advantage. During a back and forth exchange Karl told Corey, “You’ve never experienced the Belfast crowd.” To which Corey replied “You’ve never fought anybody like me before.” History will be made at the SSE Arena on March 23rd when these two face off in the main event. The co-main features the longtime face of Bellator, Patricio Pitbull, defending his Featherweight Title against UFC and PFL Vet Jeremy Kennedy. “The Strabanimal” James Gallagher will also be in action against Leandro Higo and former Title Challenger Fabian Edwards takes on Canadian Aaron Jeffrey.

All media courtesy of the PFL