10 March 2023 , 22:58
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The Carolina Panthers have completed a sensational trade with the Chicago Bears for the first pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
The Panthers are in the market for a quarterback after struggling with the likes of Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold and P.J. Walker in 2022 as the franchise laboured to a 7-10 record. The trade with the Bears reportedly is in exchange for big-time compensation including multiple 1st rounders, with Chicago receiving the ninth pick in next month's draft.
It was not just the ninth pick; the Panthers have sent the ninth overall pick, the 61st overall pick, a first-round selection in 2024, a second-round selection in 2025 and star receiver DJ Moore to the Chicago Bears. In exchange, Carolina receive the 1st overall pick from the Bears.
The move allows the Panthers to potentially move for their future franchise quarterback. The NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis saw a strong showing from the quarterback class with Alabama’s Bryce Young, Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud, Kentucky’s Will Levis and Anthony Richardson of Florida all receiving rave reviews either from the workouts or interview process.
The Combine meant Chicago were sat in the perfect position to reap the benefits in terms of compensation as they leaned towards moving forwards with Fields, a first round pick in the 2021 draft. Bears general manager Ryan Poles reportedly said the Bears have ‘got to see it through’ in regards to Fields’ future with the franchise.
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DJ Moore has been traded to the Chicago Bears as part of the haul for the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft (Getty Images)The move means Poles has secured Fields a big-time weapon before the draft and free agency period in the form of Moore. The Bears were reportedly interested in acquiring Moore prior to free agency, and this trade ensures the NFC North team get their wish.
Moore is one of the best young receivers in the NFL and has tallied over 2,000 receiving yards in his last two years, along with 11 touchdowns. The 25-year-old adds immediate firepower to a Bears offence that struggled at times in 2022 and ultimately gives Fields a true leading receiver.
Moore reacted to the news with a pair of shocked face emojis on social media - but it's a reality. He is heading to Chicago while the Panthers will likely select their franchise quarterback of the foreseeable future. Carolina are now on the clock, while questions will linger over who the team will select up until the first round begins on 27 April in Kansas City.