The Chicago Bears are enhancing their roster by signing veteran wide receiver and return specialist DeAndre Carter, according to ESPN’s Jordan Schultz. Although the team has not officially confirmed Carter’s addition, no corresponding roster move is required at this stage.
Carter, who played primarily as a return specialist for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023, averaged 9.7 yards on 24 punt returns and 23.8 yards on 11 kickoff returns. His experience could be valuable for the Bears as they adapt to the NFL’s new kickoff rules for the 2024 season. Carter, 31, has also accumulated 108 receptions for 1,259 yards and six touchdowns over his six-season career, with his best performance as a receiver coming in 2022 with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Upon officially signing Carter, the Bears will reach their 90-man roster limit. Any further signings before the first training camp practice on July 26 will necessitate a corresponding cut.
Carter is not entirely new to the Bears, having played four games under coach Matt Nagy in 2020, though he primarily served as a punt returner without any offensive action. His extensive experience in returning punts (1,294 yards) and kickoffs (2,646 yards) makes him a significant asset for special teams.
The NFL’s new kickoff format could make Carter’s return skills even more valuable. The new rules restrict movement before the ball is touched or hits the ground, potentially increasing the frequency of kickoff returns. Carter’s speed and experience could give the Bears a competitive edge.
Carter’s addition might also impact other players vying for a spot on the 53-man roster. With more receiving experience than most Bears receivers except DJ Moore and Keenan Allen, Carter could secure a spot as the fifth or sixth receiver if he excels in return duties.
Carter’s primary competition could be Velus Jones Jr., a 2022 third-round pick known for his kickoff returns but less impactful as an offensive player. Bears special teams coordinator Richard Hightower praised Jones’ dynamic return ability, highlighting his potential with the new kickoff rules.
Carter could also challenge Dante Pettis, who served as the Bears’ primary punt returner in 2022 but missed 2023 due to injury. While the Bears re-signed Pettis for 2024, Carter’s dual return capability might push Pettis to the roster bubble.
Be the first to comment