Chicago Bears: 5 Tight ends to target in 2020 NFL free agency

2. Nick O’Leary (6-3, 252 pounds)

The last few seasons have been tough for Nick O’Leary. He had a career-high 22 catches and 322 yards to go along with two touchdowns for the Buffalo Bills in 2017 then got released. He signed with the Miami Dolphins, where the coaches and front office said he’d get more playing time. That didn’t happen, however, as he had only 12 catches (on 15 targets) for 123 yards and a touchdown.

After having a pass bounce off his chest that went for an interception against the Pittsburgh Steelers this season, the Dolphins decided they had enough and released him. The Jacksonville Jaguars picked him up for the rest of the season.

Now O’Leary is a free agent again. The Bears situation might be a little off-kilter now but it’s still better than what he was in with Miami and Jacksonville.

O’Leary doesn’t have to come in and be the main guy. He can come in and be a dependable backup. He runs good routes and normally has good hands. Additionally, he gives the Bears some flexibility since he can also play fullback. One of the things the Bears could use is a fullback blocking ahead of running back David Montgomery, opening up holes for him. O’Leary can be the guy doing that.

O’Leary is a good value pickup. The cost of signing him would be low. He not only helps in the passing game but also in the running game. He gives the Chicago Bears added depth that the current backups just didn’t provide in 2019.