The Bears signed Tre McBride from the Tennessee Titans. What does he bring?
McBride was a 2015 seventh round pick from William & Mary. In his rookie season he caught two passes, one going for a one yard touchdown. However, he spent most of his rookie season and the 2016 season on the teams practice squad.
So what do the Bears see that has them anxious to get him on their roster?
Coming from NFL.com, McBrides’ strengths and weaknesses consisted of good size and an ability to make catches in the air. He has a wide catch radius and can make circus catches. However, he is not a speedster, and is not a proficient route runner, failing to get separation.
In terms of his athletic profile, mockdraftable.com tracks him as an above average athlete in most regards.
While McBride did not show much in the regular season, his ability to hold onto passes in traffic did show in the preseason. In the teams last preseason game he goes over the middle, and hangs onto the ball while absorbing the hit.
He may have even improved on his ability to separate. Here, he gives himself a step to the inside, and shows off the catch radius that has been mentioned.
McBride was not used as a deep threat, but in two seasons he had 10 receptions for over ten yards in the preseason. The Titans were able to find ways to get him space, and he took advantage.
Of course, there is a reason why the Titans moved on from him. He had three drops in the preseason as well, and does not consistently show the ability to get that step to the inside.
Still, while he is about three inches shorter than Cameron Meredith he profiles somewhat similarly. An outside receiver who can lineup in the slot. He has a big catch radius and while he does not show over the top speed he can find himself open down the field.
Next: 53-man roster instant reactions
The Bears have hit on a lottery ticket with a similar profile in the past. It must be worth it for the Bears to take another shot with McBride.