Offensive Free Agents The Chicago Bears Should Target
By Tooch
Dec 15, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Ted Ginn (19) runs the end around during the third quarter against the New York Jets at Bank of America Stadium. Panthers defeated the Jets 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Wide Receiver
1) Ted Ginn, Jr. (UFA) — Much like running back, the Bears are also pretty well set at wide receiver. Ginn would be a dream scenario signing for the Bears if they cannot re-sign Hester. He has stepped in admirably as a No. 3 receiver in Carolina this season, while also maintaining kick return duties. His $1.1 million cap hit in 2013 will likely balloon next season, though.
2) Dexter McCluster (UFA) — McCluster has been part of a resurgent Kansas City offense this year. The Chiefs utilize him out of the backfield, as a receiver and also as a returner. The do-it-all McCluster will also command money in the same neighborhood as Ginn, but Trestman should be licking his chops at the potential to have somebody like him in his offense.
3) Golden Tate (UFA) — As a Notre Dame alum, Tate would have the opportunity to move back to the midwest. He’s a much more reliable receiver than Ginn or McCluster, and also works as a returner for the Seahawks. At 25 years old, age is definitely on his side — but he’s unlikely to leave the great situation in Seattle. Still, he’s somebody the Bears should at least look into.
Tight End
1) Garrett Graham (UFA) — Graham has had a breakout season in Houston after filling in for the injured Owen Daniels. With the Texans likely to start rebuilding, Graham may be the odd man out but will likely command more than the $750,000 he made last season. He would provide a fantastic complement to Martellus Bennett in the Bears offense and give the Bears and Cutler even more weapons.
2) Bear Pascoe (UFA) — Pascoe is considered more of a blocking tight end, but does have the ability to spread out and catch passes. He’s withered away in New York with Eli Manning throwing him the ball, so a change of scenery is overdue. Package him with Bennett, and not only would the Bears feature two former Giants, but two great blocking tight ends as well.
3) Kyle Adams (UFA) — The former Bear Adams is familiar with the organization and comes at an incredible bargain price. He could be worth a look as a No. 3 tight end for the Bears as well as a backup fullback.