The Chicago Bears have an obvious question mark at the receiver position heading into the 2026 offseason. One that gained just a tad more clarity with the franchise opting to retain Maurice Alexander for the 2026 campaign. The depth piece has been signed to a future/reserve deal and makes sense not only as emergency depth but perhaps as a surprise contributor next season. Ben Johnson's offense already has clear building blocks in the passing game with Colston Loveland, Luther Burden, and Rome Odunze all under contract next season.
While DJ Moore also remains rostered, there are far more questions swirling around the veteran's future. A trade could make sense for both sides, given Moore's failure to find consistent chemistry with Caleb Williams. The one caveat here is that Moore offered improved performances in the playoffs, while Odunze struggled. No question, the door is open at the position for several changes, and Alexander could stand to benefit.
At the very least, the pass catcher is valued as depth to bring in behind the current known contributors. There could even be a path to winning the final active roster spot. Both Olamide Zaccheaus and Devin Duvernay are slated to hit free agency, leaving a void at the bottom of the Chicago depth chart at receiver. This provides a path for Alexander to make a case as a potential returner.
Bears Make Savvy Early Move Retaining Depth Receiver Maurice Alexander
Another great part of keeping the pass catcher is that it will come at an incredibly low rate while still having upside. Even if Alexander is unable to break through into the offensive rotation, he does have experience as a return option, and Duvernay could easily be lost in free agency. Chicago would be wise to give Alexander a chance not only to win a depth role as a receiver but to prove himself capable of being a viable return option.
Chicago has a myriad of difficult decisions to make at the position, needing to find clarity on who will be the team's featured weapons. This is especially the case due to a talented backfield that should take away potential targets, helping to shorten games and control the game by keeping the ball on the ground.
This makes it clear that the franchise is likely to part ways with at least one notable name while already facing lost depth in free agency. It is an opportunity for Alexander, who already has momentum regarding fan interest. The receiver simply needs an opportunity, and it appears that this is the direction we're heading after the early offseason re-signing.