When a new regime takes over, it’s not uncommon for personal projects from the previous one to quietly find the exit door. It happened when Ryan Pace took over in 2015. Most expect the same to occur with GM Ryan Poles. However, at least one name seems to hold some intrigue for him and the new coaching staff. That is Jesper Horsted. In a slightly surprising move, the tight end was retained as an exclusive rights free agent along with center Sam Mustipher and tackle Lachavious Simmons.
The Bears don’t lose much by making these moves. All three men will make less than $1 million each on an ERFA contract. Yet to bring them back at least hints at some interest in what they can do. The offensive linemen one can understand. Chicago needs a lot of bodies at that position. Keeping Horsted too smacks of something else. It is possible Luke Getsy and his offensive staff might see some untapped potential in the former undrafted free agent.
Potential that flashed with his two touchdown catches last season.
#Bears roster move:
We have tendered exclusive rights free agents TE Jesper Horsted, OL Sam Mustipher and OL Lachavious Simmons.— Chicago Bears (@BearsPR) March 8, 2022
Many Bears fans expressed frustration with the previous regime about not giving Horsted more opportunities on offense. Despite his humble background, he kept showing his considerable potential as a weapon in the passing game. Of his ten career catches, three have gone for touchdowns. The guy makes plays. Yet, for whatever reason, Matt Nagy was overly fixated on veterans that couldn’t get the job done.
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That shouldn’t be an issue with Getsy. He comes from a Green Bay Packers team that developed Robert Tonyan into a capable starter. Tonyan was also an undrafted free agent. Jesper Horsted has similar size, similar athleticism, and maybe even better natural pass-catching instincts. He also has the trust of Justin Fields. The Bears are wise to keep him around. It becomes interesting to see what they might have in mind for him over the next few months.
