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Mariani ended the 2015 campaign with 22 catches for 300 yards and no touchdowns.
It was far and away the best season as a receiver for Mariani, who had made his living exclusively as a kick returner prior during his career. However, a number of injuries to the Bears' wideout corps opened up extended opportunities for Mariani, and he developed a surprising rapport with quarterback Jay Cutler. He saved his best work for Week 17 against the Lions, catching six balls for 80 yards while making the start with all of Alshon Jeffery, Marquess Wilson, and Eddie Royal sidelined by injury. Despite his accomplishments, there's no guarantee that Mariani will stick around with the Bears in 2016, especially after he routinely showed questionable ball security as a returner and rarely delivered explosive plays.
