Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the Bears likely to pass on a quarterback with the third overall pick?
Almost every recent mock draft from respectable analysts has the Bears selecting Alabama defensive lineman Jonathan Allen at third overall. The consensus is that Cleveland takes Myles Garrett first and San Francisco selects a quarterback second, leaving Chicago to choose between a top QB or the best pure defensive lineman in the draft.
Who is Jonathan Allen and why do the Bears want him?
Jonathan Allen is a defensive lineman out of Alabama considered the best pure defensive lineman in the 2017 draft. The Bears finished 27th in run defense last year and lack depth at defensive tackle in their 3-4, and adding Allen alongside Eddie Goldman and Akiem Hicks would give Chicago arguably the best young defensive front in the league.
What is the Raiders strategy the Bears could use to find their quarterback?
In 2014, the Raiders used their first pick on pass-rusher Khalil Mack and then came back in the second round to select Derek Carr. The Bears could follow that same blueprint by taking Allen first and then grabbing a quarterback like Patrick Mahomes in the second round.
Could the Bears target Jimmy Garoppolo instead of drafting a quarterback?
One possibility mentioned is packaging Chicago's second-round pick to acquire Jimmy Garoppolo, who would then compete with Brian Hoyer for the starting role. Mike Glennon and Tyrod Taylor are also mentioned as potential free agent options.
Has Bears GM Ryan Pace ever drafted a quarterback?
No, Ryan Pace has not selected a quarterback in either of his two drafts with the Bears heading into 2017. That trend, combined with the current mock draft consensus, is a big reason why nobody with credibility expects Chicago to draft a quarterback in the first round.