The Chicago Bears claim a wide receiver off of waivers from the Chiefs
The Chicago Bears made another move to help Justin Fields on Wednesday. Ryan Poles targeted his old team through the waivers process and claimed a much-needed wide receiver. Now, it’s not a guarantee that this receiver even makes the roster. However, when you are in the Bears’ current rebuilding situation, every person deserves a shot. Enter in Chris Finke — wide receiver out of Notre Dame.
Is Finke a more modern version of Rudy? He was a walk-on at Notre Dame who never saw the field his freshman season. He fought and clawed to make an impact though, (similar to Rudy) and he’s been lucky enough to make the NFL — even if only as an undrafted free agent who has been on multiple practice squads.
Who is Chicago Bears new wide receiver, Chris Finke?
While at Notre Dame, Finke was able to amass 1,251 yards and score eight touchdowns. His best two seasons were in 2018 and 2019. In 2018, Finke caught 49 balls for 571 yards and averaged just less than 12 yards per reception. He caught two touchdowns that year while also rushing for 20 yards on five attempts. In 2019, Finke caught 41 balls for 456 yards and averaged just over 11 yards per catch. He was able to find the end zone four times though that season.
Chris Finke also participated in the punt return game. He finished his collegiate career with 602 punt return yards for an 8.2 yards-per-return average. Could he also be given a shot to return punts for the Chicago Bears this season? Well, he has to make the team first. Ryan Poles was part of the Chiefs organization when the team brought Chris Finke to Kansas City. Obviously, he has done his homework on Finke and likes what he has seen.
From a physicality standpoint, Chris Finke stands 5’10” and weighs in at 186 pounds. He isn’t going to burn you. He ran a 4.57 40-yard dash but he showed an ability to attack the zones while at Notre Dame and could make for a nice possession receiver. He has a twitch to his hips that allows him to make defenders miss, while also having some solid hands.
Chris Finke also isn’t afraid to take a hit or jump up for a contested ball. With the Chicago Bears’ current roster at wide receiver, he should have plenty of opportunities to prove himself and make the final roster. Although an undrafted free agent out of Notre Dame, I like the grit that Finke shows on tape. Keep an eye on this kid in the offseason. Maybe he develops into a Hunter Renfroe?