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Updated: July 25, 2011, 1:26 PM ET
Sources: Bears interested in Brad Smith
By Michael C. Wright
ESPNChicago.com
Archive
The Chicago Bears won't be major players in free agency when it comes to the top-tier receivers on the market, but sources say the team has a legitimate interest in New York Jets receiver Brad Smith.
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A fourth-round pick in 2006 and former quarterback at Missouri, Smith caught just four passes last season for 44 yards with no touchdowns, and rushed for 299 yards on 38 attempts. Those numbers might not immediately resonate, but it's likely the Bears are drawn to Smith's 6-foot-2, 212-pound frame, versatility and the fact he represents an explosive value option who could take some of the attention off playmakers such as Devin Hester and Matt Forte.
Throughout his five-year career, Smith has contributed at several positions on offense and in the return game. In addition to catching 64 passes over his career, he's averaged 7.8 yards per carry (98 attempts) and completed four-of-seven passes for 51 yards and a touchdown. As a return man, Smith has averaged 26.6 yards on 74 kickoff returns.
Smith signed a restricted free-agent tender with the Jets last March worth $1.76 million, and is seeking a multiyear deal in free agency. There's a good chance Smith's value has increased somewhat given the proposed rule in the labor settlement that makes all third quarterbacks active on game day. The new rule would mean that Smith could serve as the Bears' third quarterback, while still contributing in a normal capacity on offense and in the return game, which basically would give the team an extra roster spot.
Michael C. Wright covers the Bears for ESPNChicago.com and ESPN 1000
I'm getting to that age where a lifetime warranty just doesn't mean as much to me anymore as an afternoon nap.
Honey Badger Don't Care. Honey Badger Don't Give a Shit.
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If we are investing money into other positions then I am okay with spending less on Brad Smith.
If we do not like giving money to any of the free agents, Rice [injuries], Edwards [off field] or Santonio [off field] are to risky then I like Brad Smith as some size with less risk.
Brad Smith might not be what we want, but he adds a wrinkle to our offense and makes us more versatile.
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High Fives / Like - 1 BEAR DOWN!, 0 Dislikes
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This is kind of interesting. Smith is kind of a jack or all trades guy who may be able to become a real playmaker in Martz offense. If what all of the articles are saying about our not going after a top tier WR are true then Smith may be one of the best 2nd tier options out there.
I couldn't copy all of this over but here's a link to his stats on the Jets website. He has the character that Lovie likes and there's no doubt about his athleticism and flexibility. He's an interesting choice if this rumor has any truth to it. Well at least if it happens we won't be totally shocked will we?
http://www.newyorkjets.com/team/rost...e-a42ba2fba78e
I'm getting to that age where a lifetime warranty just doesn't mean as much to me anymore as an afternoon nap.
Honey Badger Don't Care. Honey Badger Don't Give a Shit.
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lol 5 years 64 catches for 557 yards. Pretty much exactly what we need in a vet WR.
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High Fives / Like - 7 BEAR DOWN!, 0 Dislikes
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I hope there's no truth to this. I don't think we need another project, inconsistent WR that runs crappy routes.
If you don't want to spend a lot of cash on the position and put it somewhere we NEED it more, fine. But please don't sign another lottery ticket at this position.
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Originally Posted by
lklrlolnlilklsox
lol 5 years 64 catches for 557 yards. Pretty much exactly what we need in a vet WR.

Let's not forget that he's a RFA to boot.
NO
Winston Churchill:
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"If you're not a liberal at twenty you have no heart, if you're not a conservative at forty you have no brain."
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Originally Posted by
soulman
This is kind of interesting. Smith is kind of a jack or all trades guy who may be able to become a real playmaker in Martz offense. If what all of the articles are saying about our not going after a top tier WR are true then Smith may be one of the best 2nd tier options out there.
I couldn't copy all of this over but here's a link to his stats on the Jets website. He has the character that Lovie likes and there's no doubt about his athleticism and flexibility. He's an interesting choice if this rumor has any truth to it. Well at least if it happens we won't be totally shocked will we?
http://www.newyorkjets.com/team/rost...e-a42ba2fba78e I mentioned him in the cromartie thread, so no i wouldn't be surprised, but i'll believe it when i see it. I still say he's an untapped talent.
What should you call any : Fumble , Hold , Interception , Three and out , or Sack ?
A " F.H.I.T.S " ? or a J'Marcus ?
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right when I thought my opinion of JA couldnt get any worse a report that we have legit interest in Brad Smith pops up.............
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High Fives / Like - 3 BEAR DOWN!, 0 Dislikes