Coming out of the 2026 NFL Draft, it isn’t a secret that one of the biggest remaining concerns for the Chicago Bears is a lack of depth at the receiver position. The franchise is one injury away from having a true concern. This encourages a level of open-mindedness when it comes to remaining options that could help the Bears solidify the position. One surprise option quickly emerging is former Kansas City Chiefs receiver and current UFL standout Justyn Ross.

After spending the last year out of the league, the pass catcher joined the Birmingham Stallions in hopes of breathing life back into a failing career. Five games in, and it is safe to say Ross is doing his part, putting up a pair of touchdowns and 312 receiving yards, averaging 15.6 yards per reception. This is unquestionably eye-catching and will garner Ross another NFL opportunity if the production continues throughout the rest of the UFL season.

For the Bears, it is a no-risk signing that can offer unknown upside while bringing in championship experience. Even if it was in a reserve role, Ross was a part of back-to-back Super Bowl champion Chiefs teams that are exactly the type of dynasty the Bears are hoping to emulate.

Bringing in Ross, who had a front-row seat to this dominance, is a great experience while handing the team a potential wildcard contributor. No question, Chicago giving Ross a second chance at the next level makes sense for both sides.

Bears Must Consider Signing Former Chiefs Receiver Justyn Ross After UFL Performance

It isn’t just overall performance, but delivering in the clutch as well, with Ross catching a game-winner for the Stallions to help start the 2026 UFL season. It has jumped off the screen as well how quick Ross appears, offering speed that head coach Ben Johnson could unquestionably utilize even in a reserve role.

While Ross would be far from a slam dunk to make Chicago’s final roster, the potential signing simply comes without any risks. The receiver can be added on a minimum deal without any guarantees included. This gives Chicago the potential upside while maintaining the control to turn the page if other depth options stand out.

Currently, after the team’s starting trio of Rome Odunze, Kalif Raymond, and Luther Burden, there isn’t an obvious answer when it comes to depth options. Zavion Thomas and Jahdae Walker would be the favorites to fill the fourth and fifth roles, respectively, but neither player is proven, and Ross would push both players in what could be an entertaining camp and preseason battle.

Even if the Bears opt to take the clearer path and sign an established veteran to the position, bringing in Ross to compete still makes a level of sense. The target has made the most of his UFL opportunity and is clearly going to garner another NFL chance. If there is one team that could make it work, it is Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams, who would have a real chance to help Ross become a viable contributor in the 2026 Bears’ offense.