The Chicago Bears came into the 2021 season with questions in their return game. They were already without Tarik Cohen on punts because of his torn ACL last season. Then they were forced to let Cordarrelle Patterson walk in free agency after back-to-back All-Pro years as a kick returner. Their absences were clearly felt through the first four games. Especially the punt return unit where Nsimba Webster failed to make any sort of impact. So GM Ryan Pace decided to find some help, trading a future 6th round pick for the rights to 28-year old Jakeem Grant.
The 5’7 receiver is renowned as one of the best return specialists in the NFL over the past few years. Since his rookie year in 2016, he has 3,184 total return yards and five touchdowns including one last season for the Miami Dolphins. He was surprised when getting the news that the Bears had traded for him but was excited for the new opportunity. The Dolphins just weren’t looking to use him much anymore. When asked about what he knew of Chicago?
Grant’s answer painted a clear picture.
New #Bears returner Jakeem Grant on what he knows about Chicago:
"Honestly, nothing. Besides Devin Hester. Just knowing that he left an absolutely great mark here being a great returner. So I know I have some big shoes to fill."
— Adam Hoge (@AdamHoge) October 7, 2021
Devin Hester enters his first year of eligibility for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022. There is no question he is the greatest return man in NFL history. He has the records to prove it. A once-in-a-generation talent that nobody will likely ever touch. A man who also inspired a younger group of athletes to be like him. Players like Grant. He no doubt had visions of Hester every time he returned a punt or kick.
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So to get a chance to play for the organization where he became an icon? That comes with great excitement but also great pressure. Bears fans have high standards when it comes to their return game. Understandably so. Grant is anxious for the chance to meet them.
Jakeem Grant will be allowed to focus on what he does best
The Bears don’t need him to be a part-time contributor on offense. Guys like Allen Robinson and Darnell Mooney have that covered. So Grant will be able to focus on returning. That is all. By allowing him to narrow his focus, it usually produces positive results. That was the case with Hester. His return ability was often hampered by his work on offense at times. That won’t be the issue here.
If Jakeem Grant looks anything like the player he was in 2020? Then the Bears just upgraded significantly in their return game. With a rookie quarterback in Justin Fields, it might be difficult at times to move the football. Having some explosion on special teams could give him a more advantageous field position. Something that was a big help to Mitch Trubisky for years thanks to Cohen and Patterson.
Grant is capable of filling that role.
It may not be viewed as the decisive move that gets this team to the playoffs. However, it might end up being one of the last pieces of the puzzle. The Bears roster isn’t perfect but it just got better with Grant’s arrival. As long as he doesn’t let the Hester shadow affect his confidence, he’ll do fine.