Chicago Bears 2017 free agency: Players they should target

Jack Doyle, TE (6-foot-6, 267 pounds)

In 2016, the Chicago Bears put their faith in Zach Miller so much that they traded away Martellus Bennett. At first, it seemed like a good idea. After a breakout 2015 season, Miller was well on his way to performing even better in 2016. Then his nemesis — injury — struck.

Miller missed the last six games of the season. He has a history of injury problems throughout his career, so the Bears signing him to a big contract after one relatively healthy season was a gamble. It didn’t pay off in 2016.

Perhaps going with two main tight ends is something the Bears need to consider. Even if one goes down, you still have another one to depend on. Tight ends are crucial for quarterback success, especially in the red zone. The Bears struggled scoring touchdowns, both regular and red zone. A tight end doesn’t always have to make the catch. Just being a target draws attention, thus opening up space for the wide receiver.

Doyle is a dependable target for any quarterback. He has no health concerns. In his four seasons in the NFL, he missed just one game. He also caught 78.7 percent of throws made to him. Teaming him with Miller would give the Bears a good combination, and if (or when) Miller goes down, the tight end position won’t disappear. He made 59 catches for 584 yards and 5 touchdowns as the second tight end with the Indianapolis Colts in 2016.

If the Bears wish to make the most out of the intermediate passing game, having Doyle helps that. Most of his passes caught in 2016 were in the 5-6 yard range. If they also get some receivers who stretch the field (someone like White if he can stay healthy), then guys like Doyle get space to work. He would be a nice fit with the Bears.