PITTSBURGH -- The Chicago Bears and former Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Markus Wheaton agreed on a contract Thursday, forcing the Steelers to replace a once-productive option.

ESPN 150 ranking: No. 113

Grade: B-plus. Wheaton was a nice complementary piece while catching 97 passes from 2014-15. But Wheaton could use a fresh start after missing 13 games last season with a shoulder injury that required surgery. The Steelers had minimal contact with Wheaton during free agency. Both sides had moved on.

What it means: The Steelers aren't counting on Martavis Bryant until he proves he can be reliable coming off suspension. Anything he provides will be considered a bonus. But if he does produce in 2017, that solves a lot of problems. It offsets the loss of Wheaton's adequate speed and good hands. And it provides balance to the offense alongside Antonio Brown and slot receiver Eli Rogers.

What’s the risk? There's reasonable risk in letting a productive, young player such as Wheaton walk. Wheaton had more catches through his first three seasons than former Steeler Emmanuel Sanders, who became a Pro Bowler after leaving Pittsburgh. But in the end, the Steelers weren't sold on Wheaton's ability to take ownership of a receiving position with tough catches and physical play.