Bears’ chances of selecting No. 1 pick could be affected by the Carolina Panthers’ schedule

The Bears are on track to have the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft thanks to the Panthers, but will it stay that way?

The Panthers surprised much of the NFL world by winning their second game of the season on Sunday, with a pair of fourth-quarter field goal drives. The win gave the folks in Charlotte a rare game to cheer about on a year that’s largely been filled with disappointment. In Chicago, the win further sullied a Sunday when the Bears’ playoff dreams were all but dashed. That’s because the Bears control the Panthers’ first-round pick this year, and that pick is currently on pace to be the No. 1 overall selection.

As things stand, the Panthers have a one-game “lead” for the worst record in the NFL at 2-13. The Cardinals and Patriots slot in right behind them with 3-11 records. As Bears fans know from last season, draft positions can change drastically after just one play, so let’s take a look at the rest of the Panthers’ schedule and rate the “winnability” of each remaining game

The Packers have been the hottest team in the NFL at various points this season. They’ve appeared like a foolish squad going through a makeover at other times. They have defeated the Chiefs and Lions with spectacular victories. However, they also have two disappointing victories under their belt from the Giants and Buccaneers. The Panthers’ chances may vary depending on the club they play, but the Packers must win this week in order to remain in the playoff hunt, so they will probably want to improve.

On Sunday Night Football, Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars were out of sorts against the Ravens; yet, the Ravens are undoubtedly the best team in the NFL. They can put a ridiculous face on any team. The truth is that the Jaguars are in a battle with the Colts for a division title and have a big lead over the Panthers on both sides of the ball. Jacksonville appears to be winning easily at home.

The Buccaneers have been a Jekyll and Hyde club, just like the Packers. With victories over Green Bay, Tennessee, and New Orleans, they have proven they are deserving of a postseason trip. However, they have lost badly to Atlanta and Detroit and almost lost badly to Carolina earlier this year. Since the Bucs are probably still competing for a postseason place or positioning, it doesn’t seem probable that they will allow things to get close in their rematch with the Panthers.