Former Steelers TE Jesse James Signs One-Year Deal with Bears

Former Steelers tight end Jesse James is heading to The Windy City after agreeing to a one-year deal with the Chicago Bears, according to the NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.

James, a native of McKeesport and former Penn State Nittany Lion, made 36 starts for the Steelers over the course of four seasons. He totaled 1,189 receiving yards and brought in nine touchdowns, but remains infamous in Pittsburgh for his famous “no catch” against the New England Patriots back in 2017. 

Following his stint in Pittsburgh, James signed a four-year deal worth $25 million with the Detroit Lions in March of 2019. After completing two years of the deal, including 18 starts in 32 games and two touchdown receptions, James was cut in March of this year. 

Chicago signed another familiar face as well earlier this year by bringing in former Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton after he spent the 2020 season in Dallas. Joining James at the tight end position on the Bears depth chart are Jesper Horsted, fellow WPIAL alum J.P. Holtz (Shaler), Jimmy Graham and Cole Kmet.