Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears are not done fine-tuning their roster in the aftermath of the 2026 NFL Draft, with Montrell Washington joining the slew of post-event signees.
Washington is not like most of the Bears’ additions of the past few days.
The Bears are deep at his position, and got even deeper in the draft. Still, Washington brings a multi-faceted skill set that could serve him well during the offseason program and, potentially, into training camp and the preseason.
Former Broncos Draft Pick Joins Bears After Invite
Bears Bringing In Ex-Broncos WR Montrell Washington
“Wide receiver-return specialist Montrell Washington has been invited by #Bears to attend rookie minicamp for a veteran tryout,” KPRC 2’s Aaron Wilson reported in a post on X on April 27. “#Broncos fifth-round pick in 2022. Spent two seasons with #Chiefs and the offseason last year with #Giants.”
The Broncos drafted Washington in the fifth round, with the 162nd overall pick in 2022.
He notably has more production on the ground (5 carries, 30 yards) than through the air (4 receptions, 2 yards). He has not recorded a stat on offense during the regular season since his rookie campaign.
Washington returned kicks for the Chiefs in 2023 and 2024, winning a Super Bowl in his second season.
He was also productive in college at Samford, but was always a difficult projection offensively.
“Washington’s draft projection will be challenging as evaluators determine how best to utilize the ability he showed against Florida last season. In that game, Washington was pretty much unguardable, using speed, route running, cut quickness and ball skills to torment coverage. He flashes those elements in most games but his catch focus and play intensity can be a little erratic from time to time,” NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein wrote in his pre-draft profile.
“A highly instinctive kick and punt returner, which only adds to his value. His pro day testing numbers and NFLPA Collegiate Bowl practice week failed to match what was on tape against Florida, but if he finds it as a pro, he will become a productive starting slot receiver with the chance to make his mark on special teams, as well.”
Zierlein compared Washington to former wideout and returner Tavon Austin, a first-round pick who never advanced beyond a situational receiver.
The Bears could utilize Washington in a similar way if he sticks.
They have Luther Burden III and Rome Odunze, and they signed Kalif Raymond in free agency. The group also includes second-year former UDFA Jahdae Walker and rookie third-round selection Zavion Thomas.
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