With the NFL Draft 2024 looming ahead, all eyes are on the Chicago Bears as they gear up to make a historic selection. It’s no secret that the Bears are poised to choose Caleb Williams as the first overall pick on Thursday. However, amidst the anticipation surrounding Williams, analysts are eager to see who General Manager Ryan Poles will select with the ninth overall pick.
Since Williams’ arrival in Chicago, the Bears’ front office has been abuzz with activity. Leveraging free agency to their advantage, the Bears have strategically added key pieces to provide the star rookie with a seamless transition into the NFL. Veteran playmaker Keenan Allen was brought in to complement the dynamic DJ Moore. Speculation abounds that the Bears may target another wide receiver with their ninth pick. Nevertheless, Williams himself has a name in mind that he believes would be perfect for the Bears. Watch out:
Caleb Williams on who he’d like to see the Bears take at No. 9 ??
“I’d probably go Olu Fashanu because I know he’d put his life on the line for me … and then one of the top 3 WRs.”
Caleb and Olu were teammates together in high school
?: Yahoo! Sports/YT pic.twitter.com/Mfd7mV5b5G
— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) April 25, 2024
“I’d probably go with Olu Fashanu [offensive tackle from Penn State] because I know he’d put his life on the line for me… and then one of the top 3 WRs,” Williams confidently stated during a media session on Wednesday.
Williams’ confidence in Fashanu stems from their shared history as former teammates. Both attended Gonzaga College High School in Washington before taking divergent paths. Williams went on to play for the Oklahoma Sooners, later transferring to USC in his sophomore year, while Fashanu became a standout at Penn State.
Amidst all the suspense and speculation, one thing is certain: Caleb Williams is eager to suit up for the Chicago Bears. “Chicago, if this is the place for me tomorrow, I can’t wait. All I’ve heard are great things about all of you, and I’m ready to roll,” Williams exclaimed.
This opportunity for Williams to fulfill his NFL dreams became possible when the Carolina Panthers traded the first overall pick, leading them to select Bryce Young. For Williams, playing in the NFL has been a lifelong dream since the age of 12. “Twelve years old was when I set the dream and the goal, and it still hasn’t hit me. But being here [and] being able to step on stage is very surreal to me,” Williams reflected.
In anticipation of Williams’ arrival, the Bears made room by parting ways with former first-round pick Justin Fields, sending him to the Pittsburgh Steelers. It’s anticipated that Williams will usher in brighter days for Chicago, a city longing for a return to winning seasons since 2018.