Marcedes Lewis Signs One-Year Deal with the Chicago Bears
LAKE FOREST, Ill. – In a surprising move, free agent tight end Marcedes Lewis has agreed to a one-year deal with the Chicago Bears, breaking the tie with Jason Witten and Tony Gonzalez for the most NFL seasons played at the position. Lewis, 39, confirmed the news in a text message to ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Friday.
Lewis has an impressive career spanning 18 seasons, having played in 251 games, which ranks fifth among active players and 52nd all-time. He spent the last five seasons with the Green Bay Packers, where he showcased his skills as both a receiver and an effective blocker. Last season, Lewis caught only six passes for 66 yards and two touchdowns, but his value extends beyond his statistics.
The veteran tight end will reunite with Bears offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, with whom he spent three seasons in Green Bay. Getsy served as the Packers’ quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator during their time together. The familiarity between Lewis and Getsy could prove beneficial for the Bears’ offense.
Lewis’ signing comes after New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers expressed his desire to finish his career with the former tight end. Rodgers had praised Lewis’ leadership skills during their time together in Green Bay. The Bears’ acquisition of Lewis adds another weapon to their offense and provides a reliable target for their quarterbacks.
Furthermore, Lewis will be joining former Packers teammates Robert Tonyan, Lucas Patrick, and Equanimeous St. Brown in Chicago. The reunion of these players could contribute to a smooth transition for Lewis into the Bears’ system.
The Bears’ tight end room is already headlined by Cole Kmet and Robert Tonyan. With Lewis joining the mix, the team now boasts a formidable group of tight ends that can create mismatches for opposing defenses. This signing adds depth and experience to the Bears’ offense, providing their quarterbacks with more options in the passing game.
Lewis began his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he spent his first 12 seasons after being drafted in the first round in 2006. He made a name for himself during his time in Jacksonville, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2010. Throughout his career, Lewis has accumulated 432 receptions for 5,084 yards and 39 touchdowns.
The signing of Marcedes Lewis marks the second free agent acquisition for the Bears in just 24 hours. The team recently signed defensive end Yannick Ngakoue to a one-year, $10.5 million contract. These signings demonstrate the Bears’ commitment to improving their roster and making a push for success in the upcoming season.
With an estimated $28 million in salary cap space before these signings, the Bears had the most financial flexibility in the NFL. They have utilized their cap space wisely by addressing key positions and adding experienced players to their roster.
As the Bears gear up for the upcoming season, the addition of Marcedes Lewis brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. His presence on and off the field will undoubtedly benefit the Bears’ offense and contribute to their success.
In conclusion, Marcedes Lewis’ decision to join the Chicago Bears on a one-year deal adds depth and experience to their tight end room. With Lewis’ impressive career and leadership skills, he will undoubtedly make an impact on the team. The Bears’ offseason signings demonstrate their commitment to building a competitive roster for the upcoming season. Fans can look forward to seeing Lewis in action as he continues to defy expectations and solidify his place in NFL history.