Undrafted TE Could Be the Bears’ Hidden Gem

Despite the winding road, he’s made the most of his reps. During a press conference posted to ChicagoBears.com , head coach Ben Johnson had high praise for Wilson’s progress.

‘You saw him today with a big catch. He's kind of had one or two of those almost every OTA [practice]. He's got a little savvy in how he moves. He's got a nice route feel about him. The test will really be when we get going in camp how he holds up in the run game and the pass pro game. But so far in the running route section of tight end play, he's stood out in a positive light.’

Wilson’s performance didn’t just resonate with the coaching staff. Former NFL tight end and current analyst Clay Harbor shared glowing praise during a CHSN segment.

‘Durham Smythe might need to be on notice here. I know he’s signed to a deal and has history with Ben Johnson, but Joel Wilson can straight up play as far as receiver—he’s a weapon catching 50/50 balls, smart player, very smooth, great hands, solid routes. From the first day I’m like, who is this guy?’

For a player who’s been waived, shuffled, and stashed on practice squads, Wilson's resilience is now paying off in a big way. With Cole Kmet locked in as TE1 and rookie Colston Loveland expected to contribute early, the competition for depth roles is heating up. Smythe brings veteran experience, but Wilson could very well challenge him for a final roster spot.

Whether the Bears carry three or four tight ends remains to be seen—but if they go with four, Wilson is firmly in the mix to earn that job. What makes his surge even more notable is that Ben Johnson publicly named him as one of just four players who stood out this offseason—a rare and meaningful recognition from a head coach still early in evaluating his roster. 

Every year, one player rises from the shadows and forces the conversation. In 2025, that player might just be Joel Wilson. The buzz is real—and the opportunity is his to seize.