In the upcoming 2024 NFL draft, the Chicago Bears find themselves in a favorable position with two top-10 picks. With their first overall selection, acquired in a trade with the Carolina Panthers last offseason, the Bears are widely expected to choose quarterback Caleb Williams from USC. However, the focus shifts to their ninth overall pick, where experts believe they will look to pair Williams with a playmaking wide receiver.

Mock drafts suggest that the Bears could potentially select either Malik Nabers from LSU or Rome Odunze from Washington as the recipient of their second first-round pick. Many experts believe that Chicago needs another wideout to complement DJ Moore.

According to ESPN's Field Yates, the Bears' draft intentions will become clearer once they make a decision on current quarterback Justin Fields. They may receive trade offers for the 2021 first-rounder, allowing them to reset the quarterback position and fill the immediate need with Williams. The USC standout possesses an electric combination of accuracy and playmaking ability, making him an exciting prospect for new offensive coordinator Shane Waldron.

For the ninth overall pick, CBS Sports' Josh Edwards predicts that the Bears will address their need for an edge rusher by selecting Laiatu Latu from UCLA. Despite a previous neck issue that led to a medical retirement in 2019, Latu has proven himself as one of the most talented pass-rushers in the class. With 23.5 sacks over the past two seasons, Latu has the potential to become a consistent double-digit sack player.

NFL.com's Dan Parr also foresees the Bears selecting a quarterback and an edge rusher with their two first-round choices. He believes that Chicago will trade away Fields and opt for Williams as their franchise quarterback. They would then bolster their defensive line with the addition of Dallas Turner from Alabama.

The Bears' need for a playmaking wide receiver is addressed in several mock drafts, including those from The Athletic's Nick Baumgardner and For The Win's Christian D'Andrea. Both experts project Rome Odunze from Washington as the potential candidate to pair with Williams. With his size, skill set, and ability to make contested catches, Odunze would provide a dynamic complement to DJ Moore.

In conclusion, as the 2024 NFL draft approaches, the Chicago Bears are in a prime position to address their quarterback position by selecting Caleb Williams with the first overall pick. Additionally, they are expected to focus on bolstering their defense by adding an edge rusher such as Laiatu Latu or Dallas Turner. However, the wide receiver position remains a priority, and experts believe that players like Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze could be excellent options to provide Williams with a talented receiving threat in the Windy City.

Note: The quoted information from the mock drafts should not be included verbatim as it is not generated by the user.