Chicago Bears May Still Have A Shot At Landing A Star Receiver

Thus far, GM Ryan Poles has not made any significant move at wide receiver this offseason. Two cheap free agents in Byron Pringle and Equanimeous St. Brown were his only additions. While Pringle could end up being a solid contributor, most agree this isn’t nearly enough to help Justin Fields take that critical next step as a quarterback. That is why some are holding out hope the Chicago Bears have a bold move in them before it’s too late.

No market has been hotter this offseason than wide receiver trades. Davante Adams was sent to Las Vegas. Tyreek was shipped to Miami. Teams in tight cap situations are reluctant to play their star pass catchers. This had led to speculation whether another big name could be moved before the 2022 season kicks off. ESPN insider Rich Cimini indicated two big names have been discussed, but only one stands a realistic chance of getting moved.

“The hot names are the Seattle Seahawks’ DK Metcalf and the Tennessee Titans’ A.J. Brown, both of whom have only one year left on their rookie contracts and are up for mega-extensions…

…Would it be wise for the Jets to make a blockbuster move? It takes two to tango, and the Seahawks are telling teams that Metcalf isn’t available, a source said. Brown is the name to watch, as mentioned two weeks ago, because of the Titans’ tight cap situation.”

A.J. Brown is probably one of the more overlooked receivers in the league.

He’s never had elite quarterback play but that hasn’t stopped him from averaging just shy of 1,000 yards over three seasons with 24 touchdowns. Everything is there for a true #1 receiver. Good size and plenty of strength to win contested catches. Sharp route-running and enough speed to create separation. Under normal circumstances, it would be a foregone conclusion that Tennessee would look to pay him the money he’s earned.

That isn’t proving easy. Based on recent estimates, the Titans have less than $2 million in cap space. Not enough to sign their incoming draft class, let alone secure Brown an extension. By trading him, though, the team would not only secure multiple draft picks but also $3.98 million in cap space. Don’t forget they already traded for Robert Woods from Los Angeles a couple of weeks ago. They also have the promising young Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, who took a significant step forward last season.

Chicago Bears may explore Brown but a deal feels unlikely

The market for receivers might be hot right now, but it’s also expensive. If Adams and Hill can fetch 1st and 2nd round picks each despite their higher ages and expensive contracts, there is no telling what Brown might cost at 25-years old with a cheap 2022 season ahead. Yes, Poles wants to help Fields get better. He wants to improve the receiver position. However, he’s made it clear he has no intention of overspending in that pursuit.

The Chicago Bears are more than one player away from contending for a championship. Besides, they have no 1st round pick this year to offer. They’d have to give up the one in 2023 even to enter the conversation. Not a trend they want to continue after seeing Ryan Pace do it twice since 2018 with the Khalil Mack and Fields trades.

Poles intends to build through the draft.

Brown is a nice dream, but unless his price tag is unexpectedly low, this is not something the Bears will pursue. Then again, crazy things happen in the NFL. It will at least be something to watch over the next month.