CBS Sports sends Bears sack artist in latest 2023 mock draft

The perfect scenario for the Chicago Bears may have played out in the latest 2023 NFL mock draft from CBS Sports.

In this mock authored by Chris Trapasso, the Bears trade down from No. 1 overall to No. 4 and receive the Indianapolis Colts’ second and fourth-round picks in 2023, along with their first-round pick in 2024, and their second-rounder in 2025.

While some Bears fans may be disappointed that the trade didn’t produce two future first-round picks, the fact the No. 1 pick turned into this many selections — including a high pick in 2025 — is a win.

It’s an even bigger victory when factoring in who Chicago lands with the fourth pick: Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson Jr.

“Anderson gives me serious Khalil Mack vibes, which makes this perfect for the Bears, particularly after trading back,” Trapasso wrote.

Will Anderson’s pass-rush upside is exactly what the Chicago Bears need

The Khalil Mack comp is becoming a popular one for Anderson. His 2023 NFL Combine performance nearly mirrored Mack’s pre-draft workout, and his intense style of play is similar too.

Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles has stated that while trading out of the No. 1 pick is his preference, he also wants to remain in range to draft a prospect his scouting department views as a “blue player.” Anderson certainly is one.

The recent round of mock drafts has Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter sliding to the latter half of the top 10. In CBS Sports’ mock, he comes off the board at No. 7 to the Las Vegas Raiders. ESPN’s Todd McShay’s latest mock draft has him sliding all the way to No. 12.

Like Anderson, Carter will be a blue player for the Bears, but his recent legal issues have his draft stock declining. There’s a chance the Chicago Bears can slide back farther than the No. 4 pick and still land Carter, whose ability to disrupt opposing offenses from the three-technique will appeal to the Bears, assuming his background checks out clear.

The Bears are expected to trade the No. 1 pick before the start of free agency, which kicks off with the two-day negotiation window on March 13.

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