Bears Roster Moves: Week 14

Bears sign WR Bralon Addison

The Bears brought in multiple receivers for a try-out this week, headlined by former Wisconsin Badger Jared Abrederris, but they ended up signing Bralon Addison, a rookie out of Oregon. Addison went undrafted this year, despite having a 4th-5th round grade from most sites, before being signed by the Broncos as an undrafted free agent.

Addison was a key part of the Ducks explosive offensive and had 146 catches for 1,937 yards and 20 receiving touchdowns during his time there. He most likely would have been drafted early on day three of the draft, if not for a surprisingly slow 4.66 40-time at the combine.

He lacks the ideal build for an NFL receiver at 5’9, 197, but has soft hands, natural receiving skills, a low center of gravity, and good power with the ball in his hands. Addison projects as a slot receiver, potential Sproles-like 3rd down back, or punt/kick returner at the NFL level. The Bears could use an upgrade in all three of those roles.

It’s likely Addison won’t see many NFL snaps with the Bears until the 2017 season, but he’s a signing with plenty of upside. Addison likely will compete for either the 3rd down back or punt returner role for the Bears next season. He could be a steal if the Bears can figure out how to use his talents effectively.

Bears move QB Jay Cutler to Injured Reserve

I wish it would have worked out better, but good riddance Jay!