The Chicago Bears hold the first overall selection in the 2023 NFL draft, which puts the franchise in a unique position. There are a few quarterbacks that have garnered a lot of attention and multiple teams that are in desperate need of a quarterback.
It is expected that the Bears, which will likely select a defensive player, will trade the No. 1 overall pick for some hefty compensation. A team that needs a quarterback to take the next step would be willing to lose picks and possibly players to select the franchise QB of the future.
However, if the Bears can’t find a partner or if the front office can’t get a deal done in time, there is a clear answer as to who should be selected with that pick: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE from the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Vinnie Iyer of SportingNews writes in his latest 2023 NFL mock draft,
“The Bears, picking first overall for the first time since 1947, shouldn’t need to consider QB with the passing and running ceiling of big-armed Justin Fields. The ideal scenario is trading down for extra first-down selection power with a team looking to jump the Texans for a particular franchise QB. If the Bears stay, they should look to get familiar defensive pop. Anderson would give them a new Khalil Mack after also saying goodbye to Robert Quinn and Roquan Smith on the second level.”
Being compared to some of the active greats of the league is certainly high praise. Anderson showcased his abilities in Tuscaloosa and made it clear that he was already playing above a collegiate level. Anderson will join the NFL and take little to no time to assimilate.
Roll Tide Wire will continue to follow Alabama football and former players as the 2023 NFL draft approaches.
[mm-video type=video id=01gm9sn82f9zvdv6j1p2 playlist_id=01eqbz6mkdd99nyvkm player_id=01eqbvp13nn1gy6hd4 image=https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/video/thumbnail/mmplus/01gm9sn82f9zvdv6j1p2/01gm9sn82f9zvdv6j1p2-4732a9e7cfc0610a87b94c19f7c52888.jpg]
[listicle id=62200]
[listicle id=61672]
Contact/Follow us @RollTideWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Alabama news, notes and opinion. You can also follow AJ Spurr on Twitter @SpurrFM.