Chicago Bears: 5 options to replace Cameron Meredith

Free Agent Jeremy Maclin

As mentioned earlier, the Chicago Bears have a limited number of draft picks. They also have a number of needs that they need to fill through the draft. Specifically, they need to add an edge rusher and upgrade their offensive line. Arguably they also need to add depth to their secondary.

By letting Cameron Meredith walk, Pace created an additional need. However, with the free agent additions of Allen Robinson, Taylor Gabriel, and Trey Burton, Pace could choose to pursue a “stop-gap” this year. If Pace chooses this route to replace Meredith, he will likely look to pursue someone who can come in and contribute quickly to buy Pace an extra year to address the void.

One player that would fit this profile is former Kansas City Chief, Jeremy Maclin. In fact, Maclin played for the Chiefs in 2015 and 2016 when Nagy was on their coaching staff. Of course, that means Maclin would be familiar with the offense Nagy hopes to install. Additionally, he would be another asset to help the rest of the offense (including Mitchell Trubisky) learn the new system.

Maclin is obviously on the downslope of his career, but he can certainly be a serviceable option. He would also provide depth in the event of an injury to one of the Bears’ current wide receivers.  Moreover, many Bears fans would likely feel more comfortable with Maclin than Josh Bellamy, or even Kevin White for that matter.

Next: With Meredith gone, WR now a draft priority

Bottom Line

Ryan Pace hopefully has a plan to replace Cameron Meredith. His decision to let a homegrown talent entering the prime of his career will certainly be scrutinized. It will be lambasted if he doesn’t find a suitable replacement. He has options, but the clock is ticking.