Cameron Meredith will be in the running for Comeback Player of the Year

Cam Meredith was poised to be the Chicago Bears number one receiver in 2017. In fact, despite being listed as the second or third receiver on Chicago’s depth chart, Meredith was the top receiver for the team in 2016. He had more catches (66) and yards (888) than Alshon Jeffrey, Jordan Howard, Zach Miller, and Kevin White. Meredith also tied Miller with touchdown receptions (four).

An unfortunate ACL tear ended Meredith’s 2017 season before it even began. He wasn’t able to work with rookie quarterback Mitch Trubisky, which could have greatly improved Chicago’s season finish. Instead, he became a restricted free agent this summer. Not receiving a ton of attention early on, Meredith signed to an offer sheet with New Orleans, and Chicago declined to match. Meredith is poised to replace Willie Snead IV in the slot position on offense. 

If Meredith catches just five more passes this year than 2016, he will come close to breaking the 1,000-yard mark in 2018, if his 2016 averages are used. They may even be boosted, as he will have Drew Brees at quarterback instead of Jay Cutler and Matt Barkley. If Meredith impresses, his efforts could help land the Saints deep in the playoffs. He’d be in the running with the likes of Dalvin Cook and even teammate Marcus Williams. Cook is coming off a similar injury, and Williams’ year ended in an abysmal moment for the young safety. 

With everything working in his favor, including his rehabilitation progression, Meredith is primed for another breakout season. This time, he may very well be rewarded with a playoff game or two and Comeback Player of the Year honors. 

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