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NFL Combine MMQB: Why the Bears Will Likely Trade the No. 1 Pick, and More Quarterback Market Updates

Links to our coverage from the end of the week in Indy, including Albert Breer’s conversations with Chicago’s GM and coach on what they may do with the top draft pick.

Monday is the final day of the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine, and even outside of top prospects and draft predictions, the offseason continues to heat up with big names such as Derek Carr, Daniel Jones and Lamar Jackson expected to finalize landing spots for next season soon. 

Below are links to everything Albert wrote about this round, plus more from our staff.

The Bears Are Likely to Trade the No. 1 Pick, but Explain Why They Are Being Patient

Matt Eberflus and Ryan Poles pose at a press conference with a Bears helmet.

Bears coach Matt Eberflus and GM Ryan Poles both entered their roles with the franchise in January 2022.

“Strong ... Over 50%.”

Bears GM Ryan Poles tells Albert Breer Chicago’s chances of trading the No. 1 pick are high, but it will be a slow process for the franchise to actually settle on a decision.

Daniel Jones Deal With Giants Might Be Within Reach

Brian Daboll hugs Daniel Jones

Jones led the Giants to the playoffs for the first time since 2016, where the team also secured its first postseason win since ‘12.

Breer takes a dive into the numbers involved in a potential Daniel Jones deal as both sides are pushing to have a contract in place before Tuesday’s franchise tag deadline. 

Takeaways: How the Ravens’ Decision on Lamar Jackson Will Impact the Whole QB Market

Ravens QB Lamar Jackson will likely be franchise tagged by Tuesday’s deadline.

Jackson threw for 2,242 yards and 17 touchdowns in 12 games, missing parts of the season with a knee injury.

Breer runs through the Ravens’ options ahead of Tuesday, and what the exclusive or non-exclusive tag would mean for Lamar Jackson. 

Plus, the quarterback that scouts said was “killing it” at the combine, and how that impacts Bryce Young’s prospect status.

Six From Saturday: Florida Coach Billy Napier Dishes on QB Prospect Anthony Richardson

Anthony Richardson winds up to throw a pass at the combine

Richardson’s vertical jump stat (41.5") is the best for a quarterback since at least 2003, according to the NFL.

“No surprise how he tested. … I would say there are no limits there.”

Florida coach Billy Napier tells Breer about the Gators quarterback, who has quickly become one of the most interesting draft prospects of 2023. Plus more NFL combine notes, including the tight ends, pass rushers and corners who impressed teams.

More from the MMQB Staff: 

Georgia DT Jalen Carter on the bench during a game

Orr writes, “Is there any doubt that most decision-makers in the NFL universe are going to end up justifying a way to draft Jalen Carter, no matter what the proceeding few weeks look like?”

Conor Orr: Why Jalen Carter’s Legal Situation Won’t Matter on NFL Draft Night

Albert Breer: What to Look for From the Four Likely First-Round QBs at the NFL Combine

Gilbert Manzano: Paying Daniel Jones $45 Million Per Year Might Not Be So Bad for the Giants

Richard Johnson: Will Anderson’s Journey to the NFL Is Backed by a Talented Group of Women

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