NFL Player News - nfl

NFL Network's Mike Garofolo reports the Bears signed WR Damiere Byrd, formerly of the Patriots, to a one-year contract.

Chicago is extremely thin at wide receiver and chose not to address the position until the sixth round of the draft. Byrd is coming off a career year in New England that saw him reach 604 yards and catch 47 passes. This may not be the splash-signing Bears fans were looking for but Byrd will give Chicago some much-needed depth in their receiver room. The team was reportedly looking to trade Anthony Miller this offseason and Javon Wims was their fourth option at the position. Whether or not Miller gets moved, that's anything but a vote of confidence from his organization. Byrd also has experience on special teams, giving him some extra utility to the Bears.

TE Josh Hill is retiring after eight years in the NFL.

Hill signed a one-year deal with the Lions this offseason but is ultimately choosing to retire after playing all eight of his seasons with the Saints. He recorded 1,071 yards and 15 touchdowns in New Orleans. The Lions hosted Darren Fells for a visit just before Hill announced his retirement, likely knowing that they were about to have a need at backup tight end. If Fells signs with Detroit, he'll serve as a blocker and a backup to T.J. Hockenson.

Free agent TE Darren Fells is visiting the Lions.

Fells only amassed 312 receiving yards last year but did so with surprising efficiency, averaging 11.1 yards per target. He also serves as an adequate blocker because of his massive frame (6'7/270). The Lions would likely use Fells as a blocker and possibly as a red zone option. Even if the Lions sign Fells, T.J. Hockenson would still project for a massive workload with Detroit having few notable names at receiver.