The Chicago Bears offense has played second fiddle to their defense for a long time. Too long. Matt Nagy was brought in to fix this problem back in 2018. Thus far he hasn’t had a ton of success. While part of that is his somewhat confusing scheme, a big part has been the inability of the players to step up. Particularly at the wide receiver position. Only Allen Robinson has stood out as a true dependable target. While hopes are high Darnell Mooney will join him in that category this year, the Bears knew they needed more to make this work. That is why they signed Marquise Goodwin and Damiere Byrd.

GM Ryan Pace tried aiming high to start the spring. He wanted to land a big fish in Kenny Golladay. Unfortunately, the New York Giants had more money. So the Bears instead decided to comb the bargain bin, focusing on a search for more speed. Goodwin had spent 2020 at home after opting out over fears for his newborn child. Byrd enjoyed a breakout season in New England with 600 yards. While neither brought star power, it was hoped their dynamic explosiveness would immediately help the offense.

According to insider Adam Caplan, both have delivered thus far.

Obviously, it is still early in the process. OTAs and minicamps are different from actual games. Still, this is a critical first step and both men cleared it with style. Goodwin made multiple big catches against the defense while Byrd is already showcasing his versatility. The best part is neither man will have to be the go-to guy. Robinson remains firmly in that spot with Mooney ready to ascend as well.

Depending on what happens with Anthony Miller, this could give the Bears some of their best depth at wide receiver seen in a long time.

Health will be key for Marquise Goodwin and Damiere Byrd

While both have shown they can be game-breaking weapons on Sundays, both are also known for not being the most reliable when it comes to staying on the field. Goodwin and Byrd have dealt with their fair share of health setbacks in recent years. Byrd had hamstring issues in 2019 and broke his arm in 2018. Goodwin had all sorts of lower extremity issues those same two years prior to opting out.

There is a reason both men failed to land significant contracts this offseason. Teams were ready to risk considerable money on their unreliable bodies. That said, the Bears could still end up benefitting. Since both will likely be in part-time roles, that will decrease the physical taxing on their bodies. Thus increasing their chances of producing the big plays this team is seeking. Marquise Goodwin and Damiere Byrd might be seeking more though. That is fine.

Competition is never a bad thing.

It ultimately will come down to getting them the football. That falls on the Bears’ new quarterbacks. Andy Dalton and Justin Fields. Talent-wise, they seem like an upgrade over Mitch Trubisky and Nick Foles. They too have a lot to prove though. This offense isn’t going to just get recognition without earning it. Here is hoping they do.