Tight end Zach Miller will miss the 2014 season after being signed in the offseason by the Chicago Bears. Miller suffered a foot injury in the Bears' Week 2 preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday night. His absence eliminates what could have been a dynamic dimension to the Bears' offense.
Bears place Zach Miller on injured reserve, lose TE for season
Zach Miller was seemingly on pace to earn a roster spot, before landing on IR for the second time in three seasons.
David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
Miller was set to take on a on a "Joker" role, according to Bears blog Windy City Gridiron. Just as the New England Patriots had once done with Aaron Hernandez, the Bears were prepared to move Miller around the field, occasionally lining him up at tight end, fullback and wide receiver. Miller was seemingly set to play a big part in the offense after catching six passes for 68 yards and two touchdowns in the preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Bears have plenty of talent at tight end with veteran Martellus Bennett and Dante Rosario more than capable of holding their own. The offense won't be short of versatility in the backfield with Matt Forte around. Nonetheless, Miller's absence could be palpable.
Miller will undergo surgery Tuesday to repair the torn ligament in his foot, according to ESPN’s Michael C. Wright.
Miller has now landed on injured reserve in two of his last three seasons. He has not appeared on an active roster since 2011, making his progress towards making a spot on the Bears’ roster all the more remarkable. He has appeared in just four contests since 2011.
See More:
