The Chicago Bears are likely going to be eliminated from playoff contention this week — regardless if they beat the Atlanta Falcons or not. But they could very well lock up the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft this weekend.
The Bears are just one Carolina Panthers loss away from securing the No. 1 selection for the second straight year — and from general manager Ryan Poles having to make an important decision what to do at quarterback.
If Chicago lands the top selection, Poles will have a hard time passing on potential “generational talent” Caleb Williams. But Justin Fields has made the decision a difficult one for Poles, as Fields has shown improvement and garnered a ton of support from teammates.
The Panthers will face the Jacksonville Jaguars, who will be without starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence. That means the fate of the No. 1 pick (at least for this week) rests on the arm of C.J. Beathard, who will get the start of Jacksonville.
If not, the Bears’ chances at the top selection will come down to Week 18. Again.