Bears OTAs: Which newly acquired wide receiver has the best shot of making the 53-man roster?

After spending the 2022 season with the Bears, Dante Pettis was set to remain on the team during the 2023 season but was released with an injury settlement after suffering a season-ending injury in August. Pettis started the 2023 camp on the NFI list and then suffered another injury once he returned to the field.

The Bears still liked Pettis enough to give him another shot to join the roster this summer after bringing him back on a one-year deal. During the 2022 season, Pettis recorded 19 receptions for 245 yards and three touchdowns while returning 18 punts.

Pettis has an early opportunity to make his mark on the roster as a returner, both kick and punt, to show his dual-worth to the roster. If he can make an impact in that role, he can not only push for a spot on the 53-man roster but also challenge Velus Jones.

John Jackson

John Jackson's relationship with Caleb Williams has been well documented over the last two weeks and now the UDFA has found himself an initial spot on the Bears roster. Can the former teammate and best friend of the team's new franchise quarterback continue to surprise everyone and solidify his spot in Chicago?

After leading Nevada in receptions during the 2023 season, Jackson fell off everyone's radar but his relationship with Williams and Odunze was able to pick up some interest from the Bears. He clearly turned some heads during the Bears rookie minicamp.

However, at this point of the offseason program, knowing the right people isn't enough. Jackson will have to continue turning heads on the field while working with one of the team's backup quarterbacks to keep beating the odds at the next level.

Freddie Swain

The final newcomer to the wide receiver room who could make a legitimate push for the 53-man roster is former Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Freddie Swain.

Swain put together a career year under new Bears offensive coordinator Shane Waldron in Seattle during the 2021 season, recording 343 yards and four touchdowns. Swain impressed as one of the three veteran tryout players during rookie minicamp and was able to reunite with his former offensive coordinator.

The former sixth-round pick still has some gas left in the tank and connected a few times on some nice plays with Williams. If he can continue to build upon that connection and keep making plays on offense, the coaches will keep seeing his value.