The Chicago Bears face significant challenges in their tight end department, highlighted by their 512 combined receiving yards in 2024, ranking them fifth lowest in the league. With a rookie quarterback at the helm and a coaching staff seemingly disinterested in utilizing the tight end position, the Bears must confront the reality of their shortcomings. Cole Kmet, Gerald Everett, and Marcedes Lewis have underperformed, prompting a search for potential upgrades.

Options include veterans like Zach Ertz, who had 66 receptions and seven touchdowns with the Washington Commanders. His rapport with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels raises questions about whether Bears GM Ryan Poles will invest in a seasoned tight end. Mike Gesicki from the Cincinnati Bengals and Austin Hooper from the New England Patriots are also viable options, each having demonstrated productive seasons. However, the tight end class in the upcoming draft appears thin, with only a couple of potential first-round talents.