Chicago Bears: 3 possible unexpected contributors in 2022

With the Bears reportedly running an outside zone scheme in 2022, a versatile backup tight end could see time in multiple TE sets.

1.) James O’Shaughnessy

The Bear’s offense has seen a complete overhaul of many different positions. Tight end is one of those positions.

With multiple reports coming out saying that the Bears are moving to an “outside zone” scheme, multiple tight ends will see time on the field. With the ability to block in the run game and catch balls in the pass game, O’Shaughnessy should see an abundance of time on the field this coming season.

In just 7 games last season, O’Shaughnessy saw starter level tight end reps, and took advantage of them. Catching 24 balls for 244 yards on 70.6% catch percentage, James was definitely a factor in that Jacksonville Jaguars offense.

With as many games started and production as O’Shaughnessy has had over his career, he will be able to step in day one in a new system and produce. Even with Cole Kmet listed as the starting tight end, it would be no surprise to see James on the field for a heavy percentage of offensive snaps.