Entering the 2024 season, Chicago Bears fans thought the wide receiver room was stacked. With talent like D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and Kennan Allen leading the way, it was easy to see how many people thought that. However, beyond them, the wide receiver room was very thin, which showed during the season.
Therefore, new head coach Ben Johnson made sure the Bears added adequate receiver depth this offseason. Chicago signed veterans Olamide Zaccheaus and Devin Duvernay, as well as drafted University of Missouri receiver Luther Burden.
Furthermore, the Bears signed undrafted rookies Jahdae Walker and J.P. Richardson. While it was a long shot that either player would make the roster, it looked like Richardson might have a chance for a bit. Unfortunately, now it seems the former TCU receiver is destined to make the practice squad.
J.P. Richardson Destined to Make Bears Practice Squad
On the final day of spring practices in June, Richardson made a few plays that caught the attention of the media. That led many to believe he could carry that momentum into training camp. To his credit, the undrafted rookie did exactly that.
Almost every day, he showed up on the beat reporter's end-of-day camp notes, making some big play. During the Bears' family fest, many fans were able to witness this firsthand. Richardson caught a nice ball through traffic from Tyson Bagent and ran it in for about a 50-yard touchdown.
J.P Richardson continues to impress at camp. Big TD from the WR thanks to a well placed ball from Bagent! pic.twitter.com/0DMRsxlA2T
— Just Another Year Chicago: Bears (@JAYChi_Bears) August 3, 2025
Sadly, Richardson has failed to make an impact during preseason games. In two games, the 23-year-old has just four receptions for 28 yards. Fellow undrafted rookie Jahdae Walker has outperformed him, recording five receptions for 61 yards and one touchdown.
Moreover, Richardson sustained an injury at the end of the second preseason game. Thus, putting his status for the final preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs up in the air. Richardson missing the game might be the best-case scenario for Chicago because if he doesn't play, then teams likely won't snatch him off waivers.
That means Chicago should be able to retain more easily. Spending a year on the Bears' practice squad will give Richardson a chance to better understand the playbook and come back next season with an inside track to make the roster.