Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, citing a source, reports that the Chicago Bears put free agents TE Travis Beckum and OL Thomas Austin through a workout Wednesday on the first day of camp.
- Biggs wrote that while it is unclear if either will be signed, it does appear unlikely.
Beckum, 27, is the more intriguing name, primarily because the Bears lack of depth at the tight end position.
Beckum is former third-round pick of the New York Giants, but hasn’t seen any game action since the 2012 season. He unfortunately tore his ACL during Super Bowl XLVI and was later placed on the physically unable to perform list at the start of the 2012 regular season. He did spend some time on the Seahawks roster earlier this offseason, but was released in May.
His best season in the NFL came in 2010 when he caught 13 receptions for 116 yards and two touchdowns.
Behind starter TE Martellus Bennett, there are no roster locks at the position. TE Matthew Mulligan is the closest thing to a lock because of his ability as a blocker, but the team could opt to go with any combination of Dante Rosario, Zach Miller or Jeron Mastrud.
Austin, 27, has bounced around in his brief career. He has appeared in eight games, with one start. He does however, have the ability to line up all over the interior of the offensive line, including center, which is a trait the Bears covet.
Still, Chicago has a number of options inside, particularly with the signing of Brian De La Puente, that it is difficult to see where Austin could fit.
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