Should the Chicago Bears extend Dontrelle Inman, or let him walk?
The Chicago Bears traded for Dontrelle Inman during week seven of the regular season. Dontrelle Inman had 23 receptions for 334 yards and one touchdown in eight games during the 2017 season. The Chicago Bears have a decision to make, should they sign Dontrelle Inman, or let him walk?
Stay
Dontrelle Inman is a 28-year-old unrestricted free agent this offseason. Inman’s production on the stat sheets didn’t equate to his value, and impact on the Bears offense. Before Dontrelle Inman’s arrival and debut, Mitchell Trubisky’s highest offensive output was 164 yards passing. In Dontrelle Inman’s debut against the Packers Trubisky threw for 297 yards and a touchdown. Inman had six catches for 88 yards and his impact was evident.
Dontrelle Inman is a big receiver at 6’3 and 205 pounds. Inman is a solid possession receiver, and a red zone threat because of his size. Inman should not demand top wide receiver money, which will help the Bears address other areas of need.
Dontrelle Inman would benefit by having a full offseason and training camp with the Chicago Bears and Mitchell Trubisky. The Chicago Bears should offer Inman a contract to stay and help their offense and Trubisky develop.
Go
The Chicago Bears have wide receivers Tanner Gentry, Markus Wheaton, Cameron Meredith, Demarcus Ayers, and Mekale McKay under contract for the 2018 season. The Bears also need to make decisions on Kendall Wright and restricted free agent Josh Bellamy.
Spending money on a 28-year-old Dontrelle Inman might not make sense for the future. Realistically the Chicago Bears won’t be competitive in their division until the 2019 NFL season. Paying Dontrelle Inman instead of drafting a wide receiver that can grow with the team is a mistake Ryan Pace should avoid.
The Chicago Bears should open up the checkbook for free agents Jarvis Landry, 25, Allen Robinson, 24, or Sammy Watkins, 24. All three have proven to be the number one options on their respective teams and can grow with the Chicago Bears.