Chicago Bears Countdown to Kickoff: 85 Days with Dennis McKinnon

Today's installment of Chicago Bears Countdown to Kickoff brings us 85 days until the start of the 2023 campaign, meaning that today we will be looking at the life and career of the greatest player in Chicago Bears history to don the number 85, wide receiver Dennis McKinnon.

Dennis McKinnon's path to the Chicago Bears

Born in Quitman, Georgia, McKinnon attended South Miami High School, where he played wide receiver. After excelling in high school, McKinnon accepted a scholarship offer from Florida State University, where he got on the field almost immediately on offense and special teams.

As a freshman, McKinnon recorded only 63 total offensive yards on four touches and added 27 yards on two total returns on special teams. The following season, McKinnon was more involved in both aspects of the game, accounting for over 200 total offensive yards, three touchdowns, and 193 yards as a returner.

During his junior and senior collegiate seasons, McKinnon stepped away from special teams and became more of an essential part of the receiving corp. In 1981, McKinnon recorded 401 offensive yards alongside four touchdowns and followed the campaign up with 297 yards with one touchdown as a senior in 1982. Following his collegiate career, McKinnon entered the 1983 NFL Draft, but after going undrafted, the receiver elected to sign with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent.