The Chicago Bears signed Ray-Ray McCloud in response to the Luther Burden injury. It providedpreseason depth and a camp body capable of helping quarterbacks develop and protecting key players from having to take too many preseason reps. Despite signing this past week, McCloud still made his debut on Saturday against the Cleveland Browns, offering a surprise target. The receiver finished with two catches on three targets for 41 receiving yards, with a 28 yard catch being the longest of the two plays from the receiver.
It served as a reminder of the potential of McCloud, who in the 2024 season finished with 686 receiving yards, becoming a surprise weapon for the Atlanta Falcons. This was followed by an odd exit from Atlanta in the 2025 season after appearing to fall out of favor with the coaching staff. Still, there is no denying that the veteran proved himself capable of becoming an offensive contributor.
The issue in Chicago is the depth of targets, even if Burden were on the shelf into the regular season. Looking at potential third options and depth players, Scotty Miller, Jahdae Walker, and Zavion Thomas all have the advantage of time and a higher level of investment from Chicago. It would be an incredible uphill battle for McCloud to make the roster.
Still, it is a noteworthy performance that gives the pass catcher a pulse, making such an impact only days after signing. It will be entertaining to watch whether or not this momentum can be built upon and make it a difficult decision for Chicago.
Bears New Addition Ray-Ray McCloud Has Shockingly Productive Preseason Debut
The bulk of McCloud's career has been spent as a depth option and special teams piece. Having speed on the return team and in the wings offensively is unquestionably compelling, but this can be accomplished with Kalif Raymond or Thomas as well, who are both far more promising offensive fits for Chicago.
It is simply noteworthy that McCloud has been with the team for a handful of days and already found a way to make plays in the preseason. Having this level of impact so quickly demands a bit of attention and credit; understanding it could be the start of an improbable path to a roster spot.
McCloud, at the very least, is playing for his career, whether it is with the Bears or a new landing spot. Spending so long in free agency after failing in both Atlanta and New York a season ago has turned up the pressure on McCloud.
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