NFL Notes: 49ers, Bears, Jets, & Panthers

49ers

• Matt Barrows of CSN Bay Area names WR Bruce Ellington and WR DeAndrew While as the most viable punt return candidates on the team.
• However, Ellington has injury concerns and While is competing for a roster spot.

Bears

• Undrafted free agent P Ben LeCompte announced that he has signed a contract with the Bears.

Jets

• Rich Cimini of ESPN believes the Jets’ patience in re-signing veteran QB Ryan Fitzpatrick could end up backfiring on them, since they are limiting their options at quarterback.
• Cimini says that Geno Smith could be assured as the Week 1 starter by the beginning of organized team activities on May 24, given that it would be improbable for a player to join the team and learn the offense in a brief amount of time.
• Furthermore, Cimini points out that if the Jets wait until July or August to trade for a quarterback, they could put themselves in a bad negotiating position and could end up overpaying in a deal.

Panthers

• Panthers signed undrafted free agent TE Braxton Deaver after his tryout at the team’s rookie minicamp. (David Newton)