Nearly 20 years ago, Marcedes Lewis left UCLA football with the second most touchdown receptions (21) in the school’s storied history. He was drafted 28th overall in the 2006 draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Now, 19 seasons and 40 touchdown receptions later, Lewis just signed a 1-year $2 million contract with the Chicago Bears.
In addition to his 40 touchdowns, Lewis also has 5113 yards receiving and is still one of the best-blocking tight ends in the game. Last season, he had the third-best run-blocking grades among high-volume tight ends.
He will join fellow former Bruin Carl Jones, who was picked up as an undrafted free agent this year. He will now also block former rival USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams.
Lewis will re-enter a well-stocked Bears tight end room with Cole Kmet, Gerald Everett, Stephan Carlson, Tommy Sweeney, and Brenden Bates Bates.
Lewis is currently tied for 28th in career games played. If he plays in all 17 games this season, he will vault up to 19th all-time. If you remove the kickers and quarterbacks he would be in 4th place and 1st among all tight ends.
Lewis hasn’t missed a game since Week 4 of 2020.
UCLA Football Tight End Signs Contract With the Chicago Bears
Tight end Marcedes Lewis carved his legacy at UCLA from 2002 to 2005. He became a dominant receiving threat with 126 receptions, 1,571 receiving yards, and 21 touchdowns. Lewis wasn’t just a receiving weapon; his blocking prowess made him a complete tight-end package.
His senior season was particularly impressive, earning him consensus All-America honors and the prestigious John Mackey Award, given to the nation’s top collegiate tight end. By the time he declared for the NFL Draft in 2006, Lewis had established himself as one of the most decorated tight ends in UCLA history.
