Despite the 6-10 record, it's safe to say that John Fox's first season as Chicago Bears head coach was a success. Quarterback Jay Cutler bounced back from a poor 2014 season to lead a decent Bears offense and the team began their long awaited youth movement. But in their quest to rebuild, one looming question remains: what will happen with wide receiver Alshon Jeffery?
The 26-year-old pass-catcher is headed to free agency this offseason and is considered a premiere talent at his position despite missing seven games this past year due to injury. Will the Bears re-sign him to a long-term deal, slap him with the franchise tag or trade him? Will they let him walk if the bidding gets too expensive?
Pro Football Focus' Sam Monson believes the lack of options in free agency will drive Jeffery's price beyond his real world value, giving whichever team that signs him buyer's remorse.
"The Bears have been coy when dealing with the future of Jeffery, who could be another victim of the franchise tag," Monson wrote. "When healthy, Jeffery has shown the ability to be dominant: He had the third-highest PFF rating last season at 94.2, just behind Julio Jones and Antonio Brown. The issue is that considering his injuries and inconsistency in previous seasons, committing big money to him with Kevin White waiting in the wings is a gamble. On the open market, the issue is even bigger, because he could be the one potential No. 1 receiver available, and his contract could be inflated through the roof as a result."
In nine games this past season Jeffery caught 54 passes for 807 yards and four touchdowns. In his two healthy seasons prior to that he collected 174 catches for 2,554 yards and 17 touchdowns. When healthy, he is a huge difference maker for any offense. But at what point does the cost outweigh the on-field benefits?
We'll have to see what type of contract Jeffery signs when the time comes. As of now, he's deserving of a big one.
