Ben Braunecker
Ben Braunecker, a former undrafted rookie out of Harvard, spent the majority of his first two seasons on Chicago’s practice squad before earning a spot on the active roster during the 2018 season. The Bears signed Braunecker to a two-year extension in March 2019, and last year he played in 11 games with three starts, recording six receptions for 59 yards and his first career touchdown. Braunecker suffered a concussion against the New York Giants, which landed him on injured reserve.
Entering the final year of his contract, Braunecker faces an uphill battle to win a roster spot. Chicago’s top three tight ends are virtually locked up in Burton, Kmet and Harris, which means there’s just one spot up for grabs. His biggest challenge figures to be J.P. Holtz, whose ability as a blocker and to line up as a fullback makes him a versatile weapon for the Bears.