Bears tight end Adam Shaheen has the potential to be an impactful player in the NFL. The only thing standing in his way? Himself.
A 2017 second-round draft pick out of Division II Ashland, Shaheen has struggled with injuries through his first two seasons in the league.
In his rookie season, Shaheen missed the final two games after suffering a chest injury during arguably his best game as a pro — four catches for 44 yards and a touchdown in a winning effort against the Bengals.
Last season, Shaheen played only six games — and was limited during them — after suffering a right ankle and foot injury during a preseason game against the Broncos.
Shaheen’s goal for the 2019 season is simple: Stay healthy.
“I just want to play all 16 and help the team whatever way it is,” Shaheen said.
But that’s easier said than done, especially as Shaheen already finds himself dealing with a sore lower back in training camp.
Shaheen missed two practices last week, and when he returned it was in a limited capacity. Shaheen’s injury struggles have hampered his development, but the Bears remain high on what his ceiling can be, especially as a red zone threat.
“He was really arrow-up going into last year’s preseason and then he had that bad injury,” Nagy said. “And now here we are and he hasn’t been out here a whole lot, so we’ve got to get him back on track.”
If Shaheen can stay healthy, he can be an integral piece in high-powered offense. But the emphasis remains on the word “if.”
.png?w=600)
