The Chicago Bears are expected to select Caleb Williams from USC as the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft. However, the organization is also considering other elite quarterback prospects in the class.
The Bears attended quarterback J.J. McCarthy’s pro day at Michigan on March 22 with a large group, according to Senior Bowl executive director Jim Nagy. Chicago’s party comprised general manager Ryan Poles, head coach Matt Eberflus, offensive coordinator Shane Waldron, quarterbacks coach Kerry Joseph, and wide receivers coach Chris Beatty, who all attended Williams’ pro day on March 20.
On March 16, the Chicago Bears traded former starter Justin Fields to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a conditional 2025 draft pick, indicating their plan to draft a new franchise quarterback. While Williams is widely regarded as the most likely candidate for No. 1 overall, they are making every effort to scout him thoroughly.
McCarthy has rapidly ascended the draft boards in recent months, after leading Michigan to a national championship and declaring for the NFL draft just days later. The 21-year-old is poised in the pocket and has extensive experience in a pro-style offense under former head coach Jim Harbaugh. He also showed off good arm strength and throwing velocity during his pro-day workout in front of NFL scouts last week.
The Bears also got to examine several of Michigan’s other top offensive prospects in the 2024 draft, including running back Blake Corum, wide receivers Roman Wilson and Cornelius Johnson, and interior offensive linemen Zak Zinter and Drake Nugent.
