Free Agency: Bears made a run at TE Austin Hooper

Following an embarrassing output in 2019, the Bears are doing their due diligence when it comes to the tight end position this offseason.

Chicago was a team linked to free agent Austin Hooper, who was easily the best tight end on the free agent market. On Monday, Hooper agreed to terms with the Browns.

According to NFL Network’s Michael Silver, the Bears were one of several teams that made a run at Hooper, who is set to become the NFL’s highest-paid tight end.

SF, Washington, Green Bay, Chicago also made a run https://t.co/FfWAsvevsm

— Michael Silver (@MikeSilver) March 16, 2020

Hooper is reportedly set to make $44 million over four years with the Browns.

Early word I’m hearing on Austin Hooper’s contract is four years, $44 million.

— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) March 16, 2020

Now that Hooper is off the market, the Bears could explore some other free agent options in Eric Ebron, Delanie Walker, Jimmy Graham and Tyler Eifert. Or, the Bears could look to trade for a tight end, perhaps Browns tight end David Njoku.

Not to mention, Chicago is expected to select a tight end in the 2020 NFL Draft.