NFL Mock Draft: 3 players Bears should target with No. 9 pick after Panthers trade

Chicago Bears coach Matt Eberflus. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)

Now that the Chicago Bears have traded the No. 1 overall pick, they need to look at options that allow them to still land a potential superstar and greatly help their team. 

Thanks to the aggressive nature of the Carolina Panthers, the Chicago Bears are the recipients of multiple quality draft picks and a bright future.

Chicago, initially the owners of the No. 1 overall pick, have traded the selection to Carolina in exchange for the 9th overall pick, the 61st overall pick, a 2024 1st round pick, and a 2025 2nd round pick along with wide receiver DJ Moore. The second-round pick in 2024 is from the 49ers.

That’s all well and good. However, there is still unfinished business.

Chicago needs multiple holes filled, and this draft capital can make it happen. At the same time, the No. 9 slot has the potential to deliver several top-quality prospects that can make an impact right away.

Chicago is not done trading either; they could even trade out of No. 9 to pick up more future picks.

But what if they stay at No. 9? Who can they take? Let’s take a look, starting with a player that would be an instant upgrade in the trenches.