Main Story: The Panthers’ 2023 move up to No. 1 for Bryce Young gave the Bears a haul that ultimately included Caleb Williams—and helped reshape Chicago’s future. Carolina’s disastrous 2-15 season sent the Bears the top pick, while Williams has developed into a star under coach Ben Johnson. Young has improved, too, but Chicago’s collection of draft picks and later trade returns makes the deal a decisive Bears win.

By the Numbers
  • Carolina traded the No. 9 pick, a 2024 first-rounder, two second-rounders and DJ Moore for the No. 1 pick.
  • The Panthers went 2-15 in 2023; Chicago finished 7-10.
  • Williams ranks fourth in EPA per dropback; Young ranks 16th.
  • Williams has 68 sacks in a season; Young took 62 as a rookie.
Yes, But

Young has shown real progress after a difficult start, giving Carolina some reason for optimism. And the trade’s outcome depended heavily on the Panthers’ collapse: a better 2023 record could have sent Chicago a less valuable pick. Still, Williams’ rise and Chicago’s additional assets leave the Bears well ahead.

State of Play
  • Williams is thriving in his second season with Ben Johnson.
  • Young is playing the best football of his career, though he trails Williams’ production.
  • Chicago turned the deal into multiple contributors, including tackle Darnell Wright and receiver Luther Burden III, and later received a second-round pick for Moore.
Bottom Line

Carolina’s bet on a franchise quarterback instead gave Chicago the foundation for a major turnaround. Young’s improvement softens the picture, but Williams—and the lasting value of the picks—make this a clear Bears victory.