Bears WR Tajae Sharpe emerges as new weapon for QB Justin Fields

The Bears are dealing with multiple wide receiver injuries, which opened the door for veteran Tajae Sharpe to make a strong push for a roster spot.

Sharpe, who started training camp on the non-football injury (NFI) list, quickly established himself as a point guard for quarterback Justin Fields in practice. And when in doubt, that translates to live action.

In Chicago’s preseason opener against the Chiefs, Sharpe had two catches for 44 yards. That included an insane first-quarter sideline grab from Fields. Sharpe made a good fit on the ball and hauled it down the right sideline for a 19-yard reception. It was a hell of a throw and an even more impressive catch.

“I just gave him a signal there and threw the ball one-on-one,” Fields said. “Of course pre-season you’re going to see a lot of men’s coverage, so just give it a chance and it’s down with it. He’s a great receiver, he’s got great ball skills, he’s got great runs, so I’m glad to see what he’s done for us this season, that’s for sure.

While Fields’ connection to Darnell Mooney needs no introduction, a trust is building between Fields and Sharpe, who is now a reliable target in training camp and preseason.

“I think Tajae is a lot like Darnell where he can adapt to the balls being thrown at him and stuff like that,” Fields said. “Of course he’s got that ball sense, and of course he’s also probably two or three inches taller than Darnell. It has a good range. He has great hands, like I said before, great ball skills. Like I said before, I’m excited to see what he can do for us this year.

Sharpe continues to show why he deserves a spot on the list. And given the state of Chicago’s hosting corps, getting Fields’ stamp of approval should definitely help his cause.