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Five Chicago Bears’ Veterans that Will Lose Playing Time in 2016

By Bill Zimmerman

Dec 27, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) throws the ball as Chicago Bears outside linebacker Willie Young (97) attempts to defend during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Chicago Bears defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 26-21. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) throws the ball as Chicago Bears outside linebacker Willie Young (97) attempts to defend during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Chicago Bears defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 26-21. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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4. Eddie Royal, WR

Oct 4, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Eddie Royal (19) is tackled by Oakland Raiders cornerback Neiko Thorpe (31) during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Eddie Royal (19) is tackled by Oakland Raiders cornerback Neiko Thorpe (31) during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /

Eddie Royal had a terrible season for the Bears in 2015. He had a hard time meshing with the offense when he was on the field, which wasn’t very often because he was constantly hurt. The good news for Royal is that the second year of his contract is fully guaranteed so the Bears will receive no cap relief to release him, so his job is safe.

But with Alshon Jeffery franchise tagged, Kevin White returning from injury, Marquess Wilson did a nice job in 2015 and could contribute again this season if he’s healthy, and now the Bears used their seventh round selection on Daniel Braverman a slot, possession receiver that plays very similarly to Royal.

If Braverman develops quickly and finds his way onto the field on Sundays, that’s going to leave Royal on the bench. At this point, the Bears would much rather have Braverman play and have Royal back him up then give the veteran time and sit the rookie. Unless Braverman fails to develop and Royal has a tremendous season, you can expect 2016 to be Royal’s final year in Chicago.

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