Bears Agree To Terms With WR Markus Wheaton

By Chris Emma--

(CBS) The Bears added a receiver to the fold Thursday as the new league year began, bringing Markus Wheaton into what will be a new-look offense.

Wheaton, 26, has agreed to terms with the Bears, a source confirmed. The move was first reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. His presence adds depth at a position of need on the day Chicago lost to receiver Alshon Jeffery to a one-year deal in Philadelphia.

Wheaton has played four NFL seasons, all with the Steelers. He played in just three games last season, hauling in four receptions as he dealt with a shoulder injury for much of the year. Wheaton's best season came in 2015, when he caught 44 passes for 749 yards and five touchdowns. Wheaton was a third-round pick in 2013.

After losing Jeffery, the Bears are left re-evaluating the position of receiver, which now has Cam Meredith and Kevin White atop the depth chart. They also added veteran Reuben Randle on a reserve contract this offseason. Veteran Eddie Royal is a candidate to be released.

The Bears are working through drastic changes on offense, having released eight-year starting quarterback Jay Cutler on Thursday. The team is expected to sign 27-year-old Mike Glennon soon and is likely to draft a quarterback in April. Safety Quintin Demps also agreed to terms with the Bears on Thursday.

Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.