Bears to sign veteran tight end Logan Paulsen

The Bears have turned to a veteran to bolster their depth at tight end. They signed tight end Logan Paulsen and waived Khari Lee.

Paulsen was released by the Redskins on Saturday. He missed all of the 2015 season after undergoing toe surgery. But the seven-year veteran was healthy this preseason and was considered a surprise cut. He remains a viable blocker and contributor on special teams.

The news of Paulsen’s signing was first shared by former Bears center Will Montgomery on Twitter.

Lee spent most of last season as the Bears’ No. 3 tight end. The Bears gave up a sixth-round pick in the 2017 draft to acquire Lee from the Texans, who initially signed him as an undrafted free agent.

If Lee clears waivers, Lee is expected to be re-signed to the Bears’ 10-player practice squad. It’s a group that also is expected to include rookie tight end Ben Braunecker.

Lee was valued for his blocking, but needed to improve as a receiver. Paulsen has 79 catches for 801 yards and eight touchdowns in his career. He also has made 42 career starter.

Paulsen joins defensive lineman-turned-tight end Greg Scruggs as a backup behind Zach Miller.