Ascending WR Tyler Scott Is Suddenly On Bears’ Radar
The Chicago Bears appear content at wide receiver after their acquisition of D.J. Moore from the Carolina Panthers. Or at least it seemed that way. GM Ryan Poles expressed optimism and excitement about what he, Chase Claypool, and Darnell Mooney could accomplish in 2023. He has good reasons to think that. All three have played really well in the past. However, it appears the Bears GM isn’t content yet. He might be looking for additional depth in the upcoming draft. The latest name to emerge is Tyler Scott.
It isn’t a surprise Poles would want more help at the position. Injuries plagued the Bears receivers last year. More depth is never a bad thing. Scott was a virtual unknown when the pre-draft process began. His final season at Cincinnati was solid but unremarkable, with 899 yards and nine touchdowns. However, he began turning heads during workouts and all-star game practices. They quickly realize the young man brings rare speed to the table. He’s been clocked between the 4.3 and 4.4 range in the 40. It shows on tapes.
Now the Bears and several other teams are showing interest.
Tyler Scott fits the Poles profile.
He tends to prefer wide receivers with versatility. Not only can they be weapons in the traditional sense as a pass-catcher, but he also offers value on jet-sweeps and screens. His vision and shiftiness in space also make him a viable option on punt returns. The primary issue with Scott is his size. He’s only 5’10 and 177 lbs. There will be certain things he can’t do on the field. Winning 50/50 battles for the ball and making consistent catches are two his next team will have to live with.
Still, if the Bears are patient, Tyler Scott can be a viable weapon for them. His route-running improved steadily despite limited experience in college. As a former high school running back, he doesn’t fear contact despite his thinner frame. The biggest selling point is the vertical speed. Justin Fields is a great deep-ball thrower. Scott would fit him exceedingly well. It comes down to where he goes in the draft. Some have him cracking Day 2 in the 2nd or 3rd rounds. Others see early Day 3 as more likely. The Bears have plenty of picks in both areas.