Dec. 23, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; General view of University of Phoenix Stadium as reflected in a Chicago Bears helmet during the first half against the Arizona Cardinals. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
We had so much fun doing our Countdown to Kickoff series last season that we decided to do it again. In case you’re new to the series, we’ll do a roster preview as we count down the days until the Chicago Bears September 7th season opener against the Buffalo Bills.
Dec 8, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Matthew Mulligan (88) is tackled by Cleveland Browns defensive back Joe Haden (23) during the fourth quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports
We’re Matthew Mulligan days until the Chicago Bears kick off their 2014 campaign. That’s 85 days for those of you asking who the heck is Matthew Mulligan is. The Bears signed free agent tight end Matthew Mulligan to a one-year deal back in April. Mulligan played 339 snaps for the New England Patriots last season. He’s known for his blocking ability since he caught three passes for 22 yards last season.
Mulligan entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Miami Dolphins out of Maine in 2008. He’s had stints with Dolphins, Titans, Jets, Rams and Packers before his season with the Patriots. Mulligan has 15 receptions for 145 yards and 2 TD’s in his career.
The addition of Mulligan could help the Bears in their blocking game. Last season OT Eben Britton reported eligible as an extra tight end on running downs, which made the Bears a little one-dimensional. The addition of Mulligan as at least a threat to catch a ball, should open up more opportunities for the Bears offense.
Be on the lookout for our Countdown to Kickoff series as we continue to work our way to the season opener on September 7th.