Eddie Royal said he and Jay Cutler have been doing all the little things that led to their joint success with the Broncos in 2008, ESPN.com reports. "It didn't come easy," Royal said. "It wasn't like we just got on the field and everything just happened.

Royal said he and Jay Cutler have been doing all the little things that led to their joint success with the Broncos in 2008, ESPN.com reports. "It didn't come easy," Royal said. "It wasn't like we just got on the field and everything just happened. We put in the work, the extra time in the film room, doing all the little things so that it would pay off on Sundays. That hasn't changed so far. We're putting in the same amount of work -- if not more -- right now."

Analysis:

Royal's 2008 rookie campaign in Denver coincided with Cutler's final season with the Broncos. Royal has never come close to matching the 91 receptions and 980 receiving yards he piled up as a rookie, although he did emerge as a valuable slot target for Philip Rivers the last two years, averaging 54.5 catches for 704.5 yards and 7.5 touchdowns on 79 targets (8.9 YPT). After signing a three-year, $15 million contract that includes $10 million in guaranteed money, Royal is locked in as the Bears' slot man for three-wide formations. Royal should be a key piece in the offense, but Cutler also needs to spread targets to Alshon Jeffery, Kevin White, Martellus Bennett and Matt Forte. Royal is unlikely to reach seven touchdowns for a third straight season, but he could match or surpass his other receiving numbers, especially if White doesn't develop quickly.