The receiving position of the Chicago Bears is one in need of major repair. Over the last three seasons, they have lost the likes of Alshon Jeffery and Brandon Marshall. The drafted Kevin White to try to be “the guy” but he cannot stay healthy. They will look to him to try to grow in 2017. However, there is another receiver that you should keep your eye on, Cameron Meredith.
Meredith played his college ball at Illinois State. His original position was a quarterback. Although in 2013, he transitioned to wide receiver. Here he led the team in reception for two seasons. In 2014, he had 66 catches for 1,061 yards and nine TDs. He would forgo his final season and enter the 2015 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, he would go undrafted.
Cameron Meredith signed as an undrafted with the Chicago Bears in 2015. He would appear in 11 games that year. Catching 11 passes for 120 yards.
Meredith would show some promise in 2016. He appeared in 14 games for the Bears. He started 10 of those. He would catch 66 of the 97 passes thrown to him. He accumulated 888 receiving yards. Not too bad for a player who had three different QBs throwing the ball to him throughout the season.
The Chicago Bears should really look at making Meredith the “it man.” He has good size at 6’3”, 200lbs. He has shown that he has decent hands and is a solid route runner. He has stayed healthy through two years as well. That is something other, so-called, number one receivers have not done.
With consistent QB play, Cameron Meredith could have a breakout season. The Bears offense could be something of a surprise. I am not saying they will be a juggernaut; however, they could keep some games interesting. It will all come down to that one position.
The Chicago Bears offense is going to struggle in 2017. There are two unproven QBs on the roster. One thing that has proven itself is the play of Cameron Meredith. The passing game of the Bears should lean on this player. Not some often injured number one draft pick.
Editor’s Note: This article also can be seen in our upcoming NFL Preview Edition.