The Eagles have added another veteran receiver to the team, signing 27-year-old Markus Wheaton to a one-year contract.
After two disappointing seasons, Wheaton will try to re-find his form from his prime with the Steelers.
Wheaton over the last two seasons caught just seven passes for 102 yards and one touchdowns in 14 games. His 2016 season, his last in Pittsburgh, ended on IR with a shoulder injury. And last year, he played in just 11 games for the Bears — he caught three passes for 51 yards — before getting cut in March. Wheaton’s short time in Chicago was hampered by injuries including a broken finger, groin tear and an appendectomy in the summer.
The last two seasons have been a far cry from Wheaton’s 2015 season, when he set career highs in receiving yards and touchdowns. In 2015, his third year in the league, he had 44 catches for 749 yards and five touchdowns. In 2014, he had 53 catches for 644 yards and two touchdowns. In 2015, Wheaton averaged 17.0 yards per reception, also a career high.
Wheaton was also a kick returner in Pittsburgh.
Wheaton was originally drafted by the Steelers in the third round of the 2013 NFL draft out of Oregon State.
But that was a long time ago, so the Eagles are giving Wheaton a chance to make the team and then fight for playing time.
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Wheaton will join a receivers room with Alshon Jeffery, Nelson Agholor, Mike Wallace, Mack Hollins, Shelton Gibson, Bryce Treggs and Greg Ward. Wheaton should have a decent shot to make the roster as long as he performs well this summer.