Chicago Bears Free Agency 2013: Bears Add Tight End Martellus Bennett
Published by Bryan Perez on March 12, 2013
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears wasted little time in free agency with the addition of tight end Martellus Bennett. The Bears and Bennett have reportedly agreed to terms on a contract that will bring one of the best free-agent tight ends to the Windy City (via the Chicago Sun-Times).
According to Pro Football Focus, Bennett was the top tight end available in this year’s crop of free agents, largely because of his equal ability as a blocker and pass-catcher.
Adding the 6’6″ Bennett to the already physically imposing duo of Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery will give Jay Cutler one of the best red-zone size advantages in the entire NFL.
Bennett hauled in 55 passes for 626 yards and five touchdowns in 2012.
Having an effective receiving tight end will help Cutler and the rest of the offense if and when things get chaotic in the pocket. Cutler has lacked a reliable bailout option at the tight end position since Greg Olsen was traded before the start of the 2011 season.
At only 26 years old, Bennett is entering the prime years of his career.
Bennett was the second-round pick of the Dallas Cowboys in the 2008 NFL draft, but was stuck behind starter Jason Witten on the tight end depth chart. After four seasons in Dallas, Bennett signed a one-year deal with the Giants last year.
Signing for one season was a wise decision, as Bennett entered this year’s free-agent market after enjoying career highs in catches, yards and touchdowns in 2012.
The Chicago Bears will welcome Bennett’s ability as a pass-catching threat, especially when comparing his talents to last year’s starter, Kellen Davis. Davis started 15 games for the Bears in 2012, totaling only 19 receptions for 229 yards and two touchdowns all season.
It’s safe to say that Jay Cutler is a happy quarterback today.
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