Matt Eberflus Reveals Why the Bears Didn’t Draft Defense at Pick No. 9
Leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears intentions with the number one overall pick were crystal clear: they were set on selecting Caleb Williams. However, when it came to their pick at number 9, there was a lot more uncertainty. Would they stay at 9, entertain trading back to gain more draft capital, or even contemplate moving up? The Bears plans for the ninth pick were riddled with variables and possibilities. While they ultimately lucked into star wide receiver Rome Odunze without needing to trade up, there remained questions about whether this selection was the best move. Some argued that the team had pressing needs for an edge rusher or even a true star player at the 3 tech position that is vital for Eberflus’s defense.
In a recent interview on the Up & Adams Show with Kay Adams, Eberflus was asked about why the Bears opted for offense over defense, especially given his reputation as a defensive guru. Eberflus didn’t hesitate in providing an answer.
“We were gonna take the best player there and we felt that Rome was that. There’s nothing wrong with having more talent.”
It’s a Different Era in Chicago
It’s great to see the Bears changing their approach after focusing heavily on defense in recent drafts. Being able to pick the best player available without feeling pressured to address a specific need shows the work of Ryan Poles and the front office.
Rome Odunze was highly regarded as one of the top 5 players in the entire draft, so getting him at the 9th spot without sacrificing assets, along with landing one of the best quarterback prospects in years, is quite the haul. With an electric offense and a defense that’s considered top 10 or even top 5 depending on who you ask, the Bears are on the rise.