Source: Bears, tight end Gerald Everett reach 2-year deal

Veteran tight end Gerald Everett, who proved to be a consistent option in the Los Angeles Chargers' offense over the past two seasons, has reached a deal with the Chicago Bears, a source told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler on Tuesday.

The two-year agreement has a $12 million base value -- with $6.1 million guaranteed -- and can max at $14 million, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Everett, 29, averaged 5.3 yards after the catch for the Chargers last season, which was tied for tops on the team. He has ties to Bears offensive coordinator Shane Waldron (from his time with theRams) and wide receivers coach Chris Beatty (with the Chargers).

Over his career, Everett, who signed a two-year, $12 million contract in 2022, has excelled as a receiving tight end, and precisely, what he does after the catch -- running over defenders and breaking multiple tackles. However, he is somewhat of a liability as a run-blocker, which contributed to the Chargers' challenges with running the ball.

A 2017 second-round pick by the Rams,Everett joined the Seattle Seahawks in 2021 before signing with the Chargers, where he saw increased volume in 2022 -- setting career highs in targets (87), receiving yards (555), receptions (58) and tying his season best with four touchdowns.

ESPN's Kris Rhim and Courtney Cronin contributed to this report.