The free agency run for the
Chicago Bears has followed a trend thus far. Despite having cleared up a significant amount of space with contract restructures, they've operated with care about what they spend. On the first day of action, they secured Mike Davis at running back and Buster Skrine at corner. Two solid depth players who should provide quality snaps.
Some wondered if the Bears might be waiting to take a big shot at a top name still available like Le'Veon Bell. That has still yet to materialize. Instead they've seemed to remain focused on shoring up other fringe areas of their roster. One of the most notable was their kick return position.
Most know that this has been a sore spot for Chicago going back years. Not any longer as the Bears came to terms with wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson on a two-year deal that will pay him $10 million.
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Chicago Bears Cordarrelle Patterson connection could produce lots of big plays
One must never underestimate the value of field position in the NFL. The Bears operated with less than ideal circumstances due to their pitiful return unit in 2018. Patterson averaged a healthy 28.8 yards per return which included a touchdown against Chicago at Soldier Field last year. Something the Bears no doubt took into account when making this deal.
However, no team pays a man $5 million a year just to be a special teams guy. It's likely head coach Matt Nagy sees value in the 6'2 receiver as an offensive weapon. The Patriots proved as much last year. He had over 200 yards rushing and receiving along with four touchdowns on the offensive side of the ball. If you can get it to him in space, his speed and vision can turn it into a huge play.
Speed is such a valued asset in the NFL today. The Bears suddenly have a lot of it with Patterson, Taylor Gabriel, and Tarik Cohen. There could be a lot more explosive plays in 2019 as familiarity with the offense continues to grow.
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