Chicago Bears WR Injuries Just Hit Crisis Mode. Here Are Some Solutions

The Chicago Bears had questions about their wide receiver room before training camp began. Several experts called it the worst in the entire NFL. The last thing the group could afford was a rash of injuries. Sadly, as is often the case with this team, that is precisely what happened. It started last week when Byron Pringle suffered a quad strain that may knock him out until the season opener. N'Keal Harry soon followed with a high ankle sprain. Those require 4-8 weeks of recovery time. Velus Jones Jr. and Dante Pettis have also missed multiple practices with an undisclosed ailment. Things couldn't get much worse, right? Never ask that question. Veteran receiver David Moore came down awkwardly while jumping for a pass during 1-on-1 drills at Family Fest at Soldier Field. He crumpled to the ground, grabbing his right knee. Never a good sign. A few moments later, the trainers carted him off the field. Details are forthcoming, but it's a fair assumption that Moore will miss considerable time.

This is a brutal situation for Justin Fields. Two of his top three projected weapons are injured, while three other depth pieces have joined them. It continues to show in passing drills where the young quarterback struggles to find guys open outside Mooney. GM Ryan Poles has tried to stay patient, hoping to see somebody step up with new opportunities. However, it's getting to a point where the team needs bodies.

Here are some names the Chicago Bears can look to for help.

Emmanuel Sanders

The 35-year-old is the most accomplished name left on the market. While not in his prime anymore, he's still a sharp route runner who knows how to find open space. He had 626 yards and four touchdowns on 72 targets last season. The problem is whether he'd be interested in joining the Bears. Every indication in recent years says Sanders is focused on joining teams he thinks can contend for a Super Bowl. Chicago isn't in such a position.

Adam Humphries

A former undrafted free agent in Tampa Bay, Humphries has carved out a solid career with 3,314 yards and 13 touchdowns over 96 career games. Most of that time was spent with average to below-average quarterbacks like Jameis Winston, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Ryan Tannehill, and Taylor Heinicke. He is still only 29 years old. He didn't miss a game last season after two injury-marred years in 2019 and 2020. If the Chicago Bears want cheap, reliable depth, they could do worse.

T.Y. Hilton

Matt Eberflus spent four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts. So he is well acquainted with the former Pro Bowler. Injuries and erratic quarterback play marred the last three, though. However, he's still one of the better deep threats in the NFL. Hilton averaged a healthy 14.4 yards per reception last year. He would make a great fit with Fields. The question is whether Poles would be willing to take the gamble. He's already shown an unwillingness to take risks on older players with mounting health issues.

Cole Beasley

People will have plenty to say about the person. Beasley's political views make him a controversial figure these days. Still, it's impossible to deny he is one of the most effective slot receivers in the NFL. Five of his last six seasons saw him top at least 670 yards receiving. He's been a security blanket for guys like Dak Prescott and Josh Allen, both of whom boast similar playing styles to Fields. He is 33 years old, but his health track record is at least reliable.