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Bears Sign WR Victor Cruz To 1-Year Deal

By Chris Emma--

(CBS) The Bears have signed veteran receiver Victor Cruz to a one-year deal, the latest addition to their receiving corps.

Cruz went to Instagram to make official his agreement, which was first reported by the NFL Network on Thursday afternoon. The Bears have since confirmed the agreement in principle.

"The Giants will forever be family," Cruz said. "But for now, Bear down!!!"

Cruz, 30, joins a revamped receiving core that has been altered after losing Alshon Jeffery in free agency. Cruz had 39 receptions for 586 yards and a touchdown last season for the Giants, with whom he previously spent his entire career. Prior to 2016, he had played just six games the last two seasons.

Cruz reportedly visited the Bears and Jaguars this month after being released by the Giants in March. Jacksonville's front office is run by his former coach in New York, Tom Coughlin. Cruz posted his best seasons in 2011 and 2012, recording a combined 168 catches for 2,628 yards and 19 touchdowns.

This offseason, the Bears have added Cruz, Kendall Wright, Markus Wheaton, Reuben Randle and Titus Davis at receiver, joining the likes of Kevin White, Cameron Meredith, Josh Bellamy, Deonte Thompson and Daniel Braverman. The Bears lost Jeffery to free agency when he signed with the Eagles in March and recently released Eddie Royal.

Cruz is likely to assume a role in the slot previously held by Royal, with Meredith set to work the outside.

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

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