Should the Bears sign former Chargers WR Mike Williams?

The Chicago Bears haven’t addressed their glaring need at WR2 through the first two days of legal tampering, but now that we’ve officially begun the 2024 NFL calendar year, a new name is emerging as a potential target for GM Ryan Poles.

The Los Angeles Chargers released Mike Williams, whose history of production and complementary skill set to DJ Moore make him an attractive option.

whole lotta love pic.twitter.com/Wz5sXtYwed

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) March 13, 2024

Williams, 29, suffered a torn ACL in the season opener last season, an injury that continued the narrative that’s followed him throughout his career after being selected seventh overall in the 2017 NFL Draft. Williams has never played a full season in his seven years as a pro. He played 15 games in 2019 and 14 in 2021, which happened to be the two seasons in which he eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards.

Still, Williams is a big receiver, standing 6-foot-4 and 218 pounds, and he’s proven to be an effective downfield threat. He’s averaged 15.6 yards per catch during his career. He’s a high-risk, high-reward player, and if he’s signed with the understanding (and salary) that he won’t play a full 17 games, he will fill a much-needed role in Chicago.

Williams is also used to being the second read in an offense. He produced at a high level despite the presence of Keenan Allen opposite him throughout his career with the Chargers. He won’t bring a diva personality to Chicago, which is critically important in a year that could feature a rookie quarterback in Caleb Williams.

Much of what happens with Mike Williams will depend on where he’s at with his recovery from knee surgery. Reports suggest he’s ahead of schedule, but for a player inching closer to 30 years old, his next team will want a clean bill of health. It could lead to a delay in Williams getting signed, which makes him an even stronger candidate for the Bears. Ryan Poles likes bargains, and Williams could be one of the biggest at wide receiver over the next few days (and beyond).

Williams has 309 catches for 4,806 yards and 31 touchdowns in his career.