Chicago Bears General Manager Ryan Poles continues to make strategic moves to bolster the team’s receiving corps. Just days after adding former Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus, Poles has secured another key piece, signing former second-round pick WR John Ross to a one-year deal. Ross, known for his blazing 40-yard dash time of 4.22 seconds at the 2017 NFL Combine, brings speed and explosiveness to an already improved Bears offense.
Ross, who spent the first four seasons of his career with the Cincinnati Bengals, has shown flashes of promise but struggled with injuries and consistency. The 27-year-old has a career total of 51 catches for 733 yards and 10 touchdowns, with his best season coming in 2019 when he posted 28 receptions for 506 yards and three touchdowns. His elite speed is his biggest asset, making him a potential deep threat on every snap.
The addition of Ross gives Bears quarterback Justin Fields a much-needed speedster to complement the receiving unit. Zaccheaus, a reliable route runner who signed with Chicago earlier this offseason, brings a different skill set as a possession receiver with solid hands and sharp routes. Combining Zaccheaus’ reliability with Ross’ explosiveness could provide Fields with a well-rounded receiving group, offering various ways to attack defenses.
In a statement, Poles expressed his excitement about the addition: “John’s speed is undeniable, and we believe he can add a new dynamic to our offense. We’re committed to building a competitive team, and adding a player like John gives us more options to make plays downfield.”
Ross will now look to revitalize his career in Chicago, where he will join a revamped receiving group that includes Darnell Mooney, Chase Claypool, and Zaccheaus. With his talent, Ross will have a chance to prove he can stay healthy and be a consistent contributor to the Bears’ offense as they look to make strides in the NFC North this season.
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