Bears Met With USC WR Brenden Rice At Pro Day

It’s well-known that the Chicago Bears sent a large contingent to USC’s Pro Day on Wednesday. General manager Ryan Poles, head coach Matt Eberflus, and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron were among those present to meet with, and watch, quarterback Caleb Williams perform. It turns out Williams wasn’t the sole member of their focus. An NFL personnel team source confirmed to Bears Talk that a portion of the contingent in attendance also met with wide receiver Brenden Rice.

#USC WR Brenden Rice has completed a 30 visit with the #Chargers, per an NFL personnel team source.

Rice met with the #Bears contingent at USCs Pro Day. Has 30s coming up #Raiders, #Jets, #49ers, #Eagles. pic.twitter.com/zuQpsTFPcM

— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) March 21, 2024

Pairing Rice with Williams could help the Bears’ eventual quarterback hit the ground running in Chicago. Rice was a go-to playmaker for Williams last season. The former Colorado transfer totaled career highs in receptions (45) and receiving yards (791). Rice also scored a team-leading 12 touchdowns.

Rice did his pre-draft stock a favor at the Senior Bowl as a standout performer throughout practice sessions in Mobile. Rice later enjoyed himself at the NFL Combine, running a terrific 4.5 at a rocked-up 208 pounds. Rice also leaped a 36.5 inch vertical, which is an above-average result for a receiver of his stature.

The Bears don’t necessarily need to draft a receiver early after trading for Keenan Allen. But Rice has long-term upside as a potential WR2 opposite D.J. Moore. His built-in chemistry with Williams could endear itself to the Bears’ brass, hence why they met with him at Pro Day on Wednesday.