Why Adam Schefter would be ‘surprised if Commanders trade for No. 1 overall pick

NFL insider Adam Schefter delivered a discouraging update for hopeful Bears fans anticipating a significant draft capital offer from the Washington Commanders to secure the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Schefter suggested that the Commanders are unlikely to make a move similar to what the Carolina Panthers did last year, primarily due to the struggles Carolina faced after trading DJ Moore to the Bears in exchange for the No. 1 pick. The Panthers now find themselves without a first-round pick this year.

Schefter emphasized that the Commanders, sitting at No. 2, are content staying there, partly because of the lessons learned from the Panthers’ situation. He noted that Washington is pleased with having a choice between two of the three top quarterbacks in the draft—Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, or Jayden Daniels. The team is reluctant to part with the necessary assets to move up to the No. 1 spot.

Recent reports indicate that the Bears are demanding an extraordinary package of draft picks and overall compensation to relinquish the top pick and the presumed selection of Caleb Williams. Williams is highly regarded as a quarterback prospect, drawing comparisons to the likes of Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence. While concerns about ball security surfaced during the season, Williams is recognized for his dual-threat capabilities, exceptional deep ball, and ability to turn broken plays into substantial gains through improvisation.

Given Williams’ potential, many anticipate the Bears selecting him and potentially parting ways with Justin Fields. Schefter expressed his surprise if Washington decides to trade up to the No. 1 spot under these circumstances.