Braunecker, 25, was a restricted free agent who has spent all three of his previous NFL seasons with the Bears after going undrafted in 2016. He appeared in 15 games and started twice in 2018, serving primarily as a blocking tight end. He had three catches for 42 yards. He was also a key member of the special teams units.
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Braunecker could see his role expand in 2019, as the Bears cut tight end Dion Sims. The Bears have another free agent-to-be tight end in Daniel Brown as well.