Chicago Bears Active Early in Free Agent Market

The free-agency period has kicked off and it appears that the Chicago Bears have been active early on in the process. The Chicago Bears agreed to terms with former Minnesota Viking tailback, Chester Taylor. The four-year contract is worth over $12 million, $7 million of which is guaranteed. This move is definitely a big one for the Bears on the offensive side of the ball. Chicago struggled last year in the run game as Matt Forte failed to reach the thousand yard mark after rushing for over 1,200 yards during his rookie year. Even if Matt Forte does return to form, it will still be a good move because Taylor can provide can give Forte some rest to keep him from wearing down as the season goes on as this has been a problem area with the Bears for the past two seasons.

It appears that the Bears are also trying to address some holes on the defensive side of the ball as well. Reports have it that DE Julian Peppers is close to signing with the team as well. Some scouts have mentioned that Peppers is inconsistent but his play speaks volumes. He has averaged double digit sack totals in six of the last eight seasons and with him on the front line, the Bears' ability to generate a pass rush on opposing quarterbacks surely will increase. Last season for the Panthers, Julius Peppers recorded 10.5 sacks, two interceptions and forced five fumbles. The sides said to be reviewing the terms of the contract and it is pending NFLPA approval. If all goes according to plan, one of the top free agents of the season will be heading to Chicago. I feel that these two moves alone are just as important as the trade the Bears made for Cutler last year. Some teams talk about trying to get better during the off-season but it seems that the Bears are actually putting their money where their mouth is.

Sources:

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/nfl/news/story?id=4967833

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/nfl/news/story?id=4969071