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Bears fail to strike deal with Jeffery

By Chris Kwiecinski

Dec 13, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (17) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Washington Redskins during the first half at Soldier Field. The Washington Redskins won 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (17) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Washington Redskins during the first half at Soldier Field. The Washington Redskins won 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Even though it was reported a few days ago it was unlikely the two sides would come to an agreement, it became official at 3 p.m. The Chicago Bears did not sign Pro-Bowl wide receiver Alshon Jeffery to a long-term deal, meaning the South Carolina product will play the 2016 season under the franchise tag.

Jeffery and the Bears’ failure to strike an agreement comes hours after Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller signed an NFL-record $70 million guaranteed contract. That contract is the highest guaranteed number for a non-quarterback player.

Under the franchise tag, Jeffery, who led the team in receptions and receiving yards in 2015, will make $14.6 million in 2016, which is the second highest annual salary among wide receivers. While the franchise tag is the best case scenario for the Bears, Jeffery’s value might decrease this season, making him cheaper, it also may mean Jeffery could ask for more money is he has, for example, an all-pro season.

Next: How Much is Alshon Jeffery Worth?

While Jeffery’s skill is undeniable, the Bears were rightfully hesitant to sign him long term due to his injury history; Jeffery missed seven games last season. However, it’s impossible to ignore Jeffery’s back-to-back 80-catch, 1,000-yard seasons, which puts him the upper echelon of NFL wide receivers.

In June, when Bears reported to Halas Hall for minicamp, he was asked if he was interested in signing a long-term deal with the Bears. “That’s the goal,” Jeffery said in a Chicago Tribune article. “But that’s between Mr. Pace and my agent.”

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