Top 5 Candidates to Replace Marquess Wilson as Bears #3 Wide Receiver

#4 Earl Bennett

Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

No Earl, you’re not #1, you’re #4.  Bennett was once Jay Cutler‘s favorite target.  The two go back to Vanderbilt.  But when Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery arrived, Bennett became an afterthought.  He got a hefty contract extension while he was still top target, but when he refused another paycut this offseason, he was shown the door.

Bennett picked up with the Browns, but was quickly let go following minicamp.  Considering the issues the Browns face at the wide receiver position with Josh Gordon facing a season-long suspension, it was surprising that Bennett was so quickly dismissed.  Their loss could be the Bears gain.  His experience as the Bears #3 wide receiver should at least merit a phone call.  If Bennett were willing to accept a veteran’s minimum deal, it;s at least worth a phone call.

#3 Chris Williams

Williams joined the Bears after a record-setting season as a punt returner in the CFL.  He spent some time with the Dolphins as an undrafted free agent in 2009 following a college career at New Mexico State.

Williams brings something unique to the Bears wide receiver group.  His 5-8 175 pound frame would have been the norm a few years ago, but with the big targets these days, Williams offers a change of pace.  He could be in the mold of a poor man’s (and smaller man’s) Wes Welker.  He doesn’t have the same experience in the NFL, but he has 153 catches for nearly 2400 yards and 17 receiving touchdowns in the CFL from 2010 – 2012.  His potential contributions in special teams could give him an edge for a roster spot.