NFL writer predicts the Chicago Bears' next big free agent signing
Could the Chicago Bears be on the verge of signing free agent wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster? The Draft Network's Bryan Perez thinks that could be the case. Perez, who previously covered the Bears for Bears Wire and NBC Sports, predicted on Wednesday that he thinks Chicago will sign Smith-Schuster "in the next 24 hours". He […]
Could the Chicago Bears be on the verge of signing free agent wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster?
The Draft Network's Bryan Perez thinks that could be the case.
Perez, who previously covered the Bears for Bears Wire and NBC Sports, predicted on Wednesday that he thinks Chicago will sign Smith-Schuster "in the next 24 hours".
He made sure to note that he has no inside information on a potential signing.
Smith-Schuster could be an interesting option for the Bears in 2022.
Chicago definitely needs to add another wide receiver this offseason — Darnell Mooney is currently the only starter-caliber wide receiver on the roster.
Quarterback Justin Fields needs at least another wide receiver to count on in 2022. In fact, adding two would probably be ideal.
Smith-Schuster is a player who has high upside but won't be terribly expensive next season. That's because he missed 13 games for the Pittsburgh Steelers last year.
Pro Football Focus projected this offseason that Smith-Schuster will receive a one-year deal worth $8 million. That type of deal would be great for the Bears.
New Chicago general manager Ryan Poles probably isn't going to commit a lot of long-term cash this offseason to a wide receiver. Poles is clearly trying to create some financial flexibility for the 2023 season and beyond (as evidenced by his decision to trade Khalil Mack). Signing Smith-Schuster to a one-year deal would give Fields a much-needed weapon in 2022, while still allowing the franchise to have plenty of salary cap space after the season.
Featured image via Quinn Harris-USA TODAY Sports
