The Chicago Bears' offense relied heavily on D.J. Moore in the passing game— and for good reason. D.J. Moore is a phenomenal playmaker, and when he has the ball in his hands, good things tend to happen.
The same can't really be said about other recievers on the Bears, specifically last season. That calls for more talent at the wide receiver position, and with a loaded class this draft, there will be plenty of opportunities to draft one.
The Chicago Bears should keep eyes on speedy Devontez Walker in Senior Bowl
Whoever the quarterback of the Chicago Bears is in the 2024-25 season, they'll unarguably have a talented No. 1 option to throw to in D.J. Moore. However, that level of talent takes a big dip after Moore.
Outside of D.J. Moore's 1,364-yard, 8-TD season, there wasn't much contribution from the other receivers. Cole Kmet held it down at the tight end position with 719 yards and six TDs. Then, the drop-off.
Darnell Mooney was held to 414 receiving yards and one TD on the season, and Tyler Scott— a fourth-round rookie— had 168 receiving yards with no TDs.
The remaining four receivers who caught a pass last year combined for 144 yards and one touchdown. For the non-mathematicians out there, that's an average of 36 yards per receiver. Woof.
That's what brings us here: Devontez Walker's Senior Bowl scouting report.
The UNC Tar Heel stands 6-foot-1, weighing in at 197-pounds. Walker is a true vertical threat with impressive feet. That sort of game makes him a great option to pair with D.J. Moore. Now, there are some issues with Walker's game, too.
As seen in the first two days of Senior Bowl practice, there were some drop issues. Though, at UNC, Walker showed the ability to adjust to where the ball is thrown, which will continue to be an area he needs at the next level.
@UNCFootball’s Devontez Walker made this route look easy, blowing by #VirginiaState’s Willie Drew.
— Jackson Gross (@JGrossBucks) January 31, 2024
Walker was also the speed leader for the national team on day one with a top speed of 21.18 MPH. #TheDraftStartsInMOBILE pic.twitter.com/Z8aroPGzU4
One thing that isn't questionable is his speed. Devontez Walker is an absolute speedster, and he can break for a touchdown on any given play.
Based on the qualities he does bring to the table, he could certainly make the receiver room better for the Chicago Bears. Given the classes depth, however, it won't be as heartbreaking if they miss out on Walker. There are plenty of receivers in the draft class who will make their team happy.