There was arguably no position worse than tight end for the Bears in 2019. Chicago’s top three tight ends — Trey Burton, Adam Shaheen and Ben Braunecker — all wound up on injured reserve before the end of the season.
Not that they were productive before being sidelined by injury. Considering the disappointing output from Bears tight ends last season — they combined for 46 catches, 416 yards and two touchdowns — Chicago is certainly in the market for a tight end.
They’ve already signed veteran Demetrius Harris, someone familiar with Matt Nagy’s offense. But they’re expected to pursue a top free agent tight and add a young player in the NFL Draft.
Let’s take a look at five tight ends the Bears could target in free agency:
1. Austin Hooper
Austin Hooper is the best tight end on the free agent market, and he’s going to have no shortage of suitors. Hooper, a two-time Pro Bowler, had a career year in 2019, where he caught 75 passes for 787 yards and six touchdowns.
While it’s been reported that the Bears will be targeting Hooper in free agency, considering Hooper’s projected price tag north of $10 per season, the Bears likely won’t be able to afford him.