Chicago Bears 2017 free agency profiles: Wide receivers

DeSean Jackson, 30  (5-foot-10, 180 pounds)

The Chicago Bears offense suffered from not having enough big plays. You need a few of them sprinkled throughout a game or season. If the offense keeps inching yard-by-yard without getting big chunks at some time eventually ends up in not getting in the end zone consistently. In 2016, the Bears ranked 28th in scoring, even though they ranked 15th in yards. The point of the game is to score more than your opponent, and field goals won’t do that.

If the Bears look for a big-play receiver, there aren’t many players better than DeSean Jackson.

Jackson averages 17.2 yards per reception over his career. He led the league in yards per reception three times, including this season (17.9).

Jackson missed six games due to injury in 2015 and had 30 catches for 528 yards, but in 2016 he returned to play in 15 games. He made 56 catches for 1,005 yards. It was the fifth time in nine seasons he eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark. For his career, he has 46 touchdowns.

With his speed and big play ability, Jackson also helps on special teams. He averages 9.6 yards per punt return and reached the end zone 4 times.

Pro Football Focus analyzed Jackson and showed that when Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins targeted Jackson, his passer rating was 107.2.

Jackson still has another season on his contract, but Washington has five days after the Super Bowl to decide whether or not to keep him. They have a big decision on Cousins, and it appears they cannot afford to keep both Cousins and Jackson. In that case, Jackson becomes a valued free agent.

Having Jackson in the Chicago Bears offense instantly improves it. Having him on the field opens things up over the middle when defenses have to protect deep. He gives the offense a lot more flexibility and choices.