Chicago Bears: No reason to chase recently released Jeremy Maclin

The Chicago Bears should not make an offer to recently released wide receiver Jeremy Maclin.

We all know that the Chicago Bears lack impact talent at the wide receiver position. After losing Alshon Jeffery in free agency, Kevin White and Cameron Meredith are expected to be the primary starters in 2017. Free agent additions Kendall Wright, Victor Cruz and Markus Wheaton expect to round out the less than stellar crew.

On Friday, the Kansas City Chiefs surprisingly released veteran wide receiver, Jeremy Maclin. Maclin himself seemed blindsided by the move.

I know what you are thinking. The Bears do not have a great mix of players at wide receiver. They should sign Maclin! Not so fast.

Maclin does have a nice history of production on the outside. He was a dynamic playmaker for the Philadelphia Eagles for many years, highlighted by his 85 receptions for 1,318 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2014. His Pro Bowl season in 2014 came at an opportune time as Maclin was just about to enter free agency. Unsurprisingly, he was able to cash in with a five-year, $55 million contract with the receiver-needy Chiefs that offseason.

Maclin performed well for the Chiefs in 2015 but injuries and inconsistency led to a less than stellar 2016 campaign. After catching only 44 balls for 536 yards and two touchdowns last season, the Chiefs felt like they could replace Maclin with a cheaper option going forward.

Maclin is only 29-years-old. He likely has at least two or three strong years ahead of him. That being said, his value has diminished after a poor 2016 season. Maclin looked a step slow last season. His ability to beat the defense deep has always been his best skill but if his speed is diminished, it is hard to see him getting back to his past production.

I do not think that Maclin is washed up. He could still be a solid number three option for a contending team. However, he is not the same guy and no matter how you look at it, the Chicago Bears are not going to be a competitive team in 2017.

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The Bears are better off giving as many snaps as possible to young receivers like White, Meredith and undrafted rookie Tanner Gentry. Cruz, Wright and Wheaton provide enough veteran experience at the position for the Bears. There is no reason for them to add another veteran free agent receiver to the mix.