Bears solidify depth at critically important position with latest signing
The Chicago Bears wide receivers room is nearly filled out after the team’s latest move. The Bears announced the return of wide receiver and return specialist Dante Pettis on Monday morning. Chicago inked the 27-year-old to a one-year deal worth an undisclosed amount of money, though his value is expected to hover around the veteran […]
The Chicago Bears wide receivers room is nearly filled out after the team’s latest move.
The Bears announced the return of wide receiver and return specialist Dante Pettis on Monday morning. Chicago inked the 27-year-old to a one-year deal worth an undisclosed amount of money, though his value is expected to hover around the veteran minimum.
In 2022, Petties hauled in 19 receptions for 245 yards and three touchdowns. Due to lack of depth at receiver, Pettis started in seven games for the Bears.
With an improved group of receivers in 2023, Pettis’ role on the offense will almost certainly be diminished. However he does add value as a punt returner.
Pettis led Chicago with an average of 9.1 yards per punt return last season. He was the team’s most reliable returner after rookie Velus Jones Jr. quite literally fumbled his job away.
There remains a possibility that the Bears walk away from the 2023 NFL Draft with another receiver. If that happens to be the case, Pettis would be competing for a roster spot in training camp. While retaining him won’t send shockwaves around the league, he provides solid depth as a WR5/6 heading into offseason activities.
