Davenport argues that Downsâ talents could be worth a bold move because the Bearsâ safety groupâcurrently led by Kevin Byard III, Jaquan Brisker, and C.J. Gardner-J Johnsonâfaces long-term uncertainty with free agency looming. Downs is projected as a top prospect who pourrait anchor the backend for years if he slides into Chicagoâs territory.
The proposed trade would involve the Bears sending future assets to Cleveland in exchange for the No. 6 pick, plus a modest additional pick package. In return, Chicago would hand over a combination of future first- and multi-round selections to move up to select Downs.
Despite the allure of adding a premier safety, the scenario faces practical hurdles. Poles has generally avoided surrendering a future first-round pick, and Chicago has multiple higher-priority needsâdefensive tackle, edge rush, and left tackle protectionâalong with the possibility of re-signing Byard and adding depth at safety in later rounds or free agency.
The piece emphasizes that while such a bold move is an intriguing exercise, it may not align with the Bearsâ current roster strategy or long-term asset management. Downsâ elite credentials are acknowledged, but the cost and the Bearsâ broader needs present a significant disconnect from this particular trade-up scenario.
