Chicago Bears: 5 recently cut players the Bears should pursue
Running back is not a serious need for the Bears, but it would not hurt to have a second proven ball-carrier.
The Bears do not need Mike Gillislee, but they could use him. If the Bears are truly looking to compete for a playoff spot and advance this season having a versatile running back would not be a bad idea.
This is not a slight to Jordan Howard, Tarik Cohen, or any of the other Bears’ ball-carriers. Having someone such Gillislee around would only make that unit better. Gillislee would also give the Bears some depth at running back.
With all of the good feelings surrounding the Bears heading into the season, a long-term injury to Howard is something that would derail their playoff hopes.
Cohen, because of his stature is not viewed as an every-down back. He will be a major factor in the Bears’ passing game, however. Benny Cunningham is also not an ideal lead back. Bringing Gillislee eases any concerns and sets the Bears up just in case the worst takes place.
Gillislee finds himself out of a job after the New England Patriots cut him just a year after signing him to a contract last offseason. He never seemed to be a good fit for the Patriots and the offense they run.
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There is a good chance that the San Francisco 49ers will take a look at Gillislee after receiving the news that Jerick McKinnon has been lost for the season with a torn ACL. If the Bears view Gillislee as a fit they will have to act fast.
There are several other new free agents who make sense for the Bears, however, adding at least one of the five players mentioned would be a wise move.