As the Chicago Bears roster is currently constructed, the franchise has plenty of depth at the receiver position when healthy. However, this isn't currently the case, as Luther Burden is expected to be sidelined until Week 1, with an injury that fans hope won't linger into the regular season. With this in mind, it is fair to look at current free agent fits and consider potential additions the Bears could consider if Burden's injury were to last longer than expected.
This is unlikely considering the long month ahead, but it is a possibility worth preparing for. Leading us to look at a trio of receivers that could have more impact than Ray-Ray McCloud, who was the team's initial answer after Burden's injury.
1. Keenan Allen
You have established chemistry already in place with Caleb Williams as the pass catcher spent his rookie year with the quarterback. Allen produced 744 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, becoming an obvious security blanket for Williams during the duo's time together. If Burden were to be shelved at the start of the regular season, it makes a great deal of sense to bring in Allen as a secondary weapon, and a veteran who can slide into a lesser role once Burden proves himself healthy.
With that said, there is no reason to sign Allen unless this specific circumstance emerges. If Burden is going to be able to return in Week 1, there is no reason to add a pass catcher who will take targets better served going to the exciting young receiver.
2. Sterling Shepard
This signing made far more sense than the addition of McCloud based on the experience and ability to manage his production based on what options are healthy. Shepard showed his ability to still make an impact last season offering 371 receiving yards and a lone touchdown with Tampa Bay. If you want to go the route of bringing in production that can easily be pushed down the depth chart it makes a great deal of sense to sign Shepard.
For the pass catcher, it would be an ideal chance to join an obvious contender after spending the bulk of his career with bad New York Giants teams. If another addition is needed based on Burden's health, Shepard is low stakes and offers clear upside.
3. Noah Brown
Brown offered 450 receiving yards or more for three straight seasons before an injury-plagued 2025 left reason to question his impact. The pass catcher wasn't able to stay on the field and managed only 83 receiving yards in what was limited opportunities. Still, there is no overlooking the ability to contribute at a consistent level for three straight seasons with three different teams.
It is much the same as signing Shepard, if the Bears aren't confident that Burden is going to be back when expected, Brown offers you a bit of proven depth. Rome Odunze and Colston Loveland are obviously your primary weapons, with Brown added in as a wildcard for what is already becoming an exciting receiver room.
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