Chicago Bears Sends Brian Urlacher Packing

When I think of the Chicago Bears the first name that comes to mind is Brian Urlacher.  Dick Butkus, Mike Singletary, and Urlacher epitomize the attitude and physicality of Bears’ linebackers.

13 seasons have produced a 2000 NFL Rookie of the Year.  He was an eight-time Pro Bowl selection for the Bears and made four All-Pro teams. The linebacker holds the Bears’ franchise record for tackles with 1,779.

Unable to come to a contract agreement, he was released Wednesday.  He became a free agent last week.

“Brian has been an elite player in our league for over a decade,” Bears General Manager Phil Emery said in a written statement. “He showed great leadership and helped develop a winning culture over his time with the Bears. We appreciate all he has given our team, on and off the field. Brian will always be welcome as a member of the Bears.”

Bears Chairman George McCaskey called Urlacher “an outstanding player, teammate, leader and face of our franchise.”

Specific details of what Urlacher wanted are unknown, but reports indicate he wanted more money than the team could afford and a two-year contract.

Injuries in the last few years may have entered into the decision, as well as the contract of quarterback Jay Cutler.

I am “old school”.  Offense wins games, defense wins championships.

James Turnage

Columnist-The Guardian Express