Everyone is aware of the Chicago Bears’ crowded tight end room. In fact, it became a running joke this offseason. Especially with the three offseason additions of second-round rookie Cole Kmet and veterans Jimmy Graham and Demetrius Harris.
With Kmet, Graham and Harris expected to occupy three of the likely four tight end spots on the roster, that left one roster spot up for grabs in training camp. One of the players that figured to be a favorite to win the job was Ben Braunecker, who was entering the final year of his two-year deal.
But with the Bears needing to cut 10 players ahead of training camp on Tuesday, they made their first surprising cut with Braunecker, freeing up $1.5 million in salary cap space.
Braunecker’s release should give some other guys a big opportunity to win that final spot. But there are three Bears tight ends in particular that should benefit from Braunecker’s release.
1. J.P. Holtz
J.P. Holtz, an undrafted free agent out of Pittsburgh, has a great chance to earn a roster spot in training camp. Holtz was Chicago’s most productive tight end from a statistical standpoint last season, as he had the most snaps and receiving yards of any Chicago tight end last season. While it wasn’t the most impressive performance statistically, Holtz led the team with 91 yards on seven receptions.
Not only is he a terrific blocker, but there were times when Holtz lined up as a fullback last season, and his versatility certainly gives him an edge in the competition. Given the importance of the run game heading into this season, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Holtz grab that final spot.
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