Brian Urlacher Has Knee Surgery, Chicago Bears' Super Bowl Chances Hang In Balance

Brian Urlacher Injury Update: Bears Linebacker Poised For Healthy Return

The Chicago Bears look to have the face of their franchise back on the field and healthy at the beginning the 2012 Training Camp. According the LB Brian Urlacher, he is "good to go":

"I'm full go for everything, so I won't be missing anything," Urlacher told "The Waddle & Silvy Show" on ESPN 1000. "One hundred and ten percent, I'm good to go. The vet days that we get every once in a while, we'll take those when we can, but other than that, I'm good to go."

In the 2012 NFL season, Urlacher started in all of the Bears' 16 games, but he injured his knee in the season finale against the Minnesota Vikings. The 34-year-old veteran is entering the final year of his current contract with Chicago.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

The Chicago Bears' Super Bowl Aspirations Hinge On Continued Improvement From The Offensive Line

Former Bears quarterback Jim Miller believes Chicago has the best offensive line in the NFC North. SB Nation Chicago's Ricky O'Donnell thinks he better be correct, or the Bears won't be able to reach their lofty goals.

2012 NFL Supplemental Draft: Time, Schedule, Order And More

With the Chicago Bears having drafted Alshon Jeffery in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft, it's highly unlikely that they'll be active in the 2012 NFL Supplemental Draft, which may only feature one selection. That prospect is Baylor Bears wide receiver Josh Gordon, who was teammates last season with first round picks Robert Griffin III and Kendall Wright.

The order of the supplemental draft is determined in the following manner, which is essentially a lottery. All the teams in the NFL are put into three groups: teams that won six or fewer games, teams that won more than six games but missed the playoffs and teams that made the playoffs. Within those three tiers, the teams are ordered through a lottery, with teams with fewer wins having a better opportunity of landing a higher pick.

From there, teams submit electronic bids on the group of available players. A team that submits the highest bit on a player is awarded the player, with ties being broken first by the tier system and then by the order selected via lottery if two teams in the same tier submit identical bids on a player. A team that is awarded a player will lose the corresponding pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.

The groupings for this year's lottery, in increasing number of wins, are as follows:

• Group 1 - Indianapolis Colts, St. Louis Rams, Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Redskins, Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, Carolina Panthers, andBuffalo Bills
• Group 2 - Kansas City Chiefs, Seattle Seahawks, Arizona Cardinals, Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles,New York Jets, Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers, Chicago Bears, and Tennessee Titans
• Group 3 - Cincinnati Bengals, Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions, Pittsburgh Steelers, Denver Broncos,Houston Texans, New Orleans Saints, Green Bay Packers, Baltimore Ravens, San Francisco 49ers, New England Patriots, and New York Giants

Draft date: Thursday, January 11

Draft time: 12 p.m. CT

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Single-Game Tickets Go On Sale Friday

The Chicago Bears official website announced on Tuesday that the team would be selling single-game tickets starting this Friday, July 13. Starting at 11:00 a.m. CDT, fans can go to Ticketmasters' website to place an order for tickets.

Here is a breakdown for the price ranges:

Preseason Games

$76.00 to $385.00

Regular Season Games

$101.00 to $410.00

The Bears' home stadium, Soldier Field, is the smallest stadium in the NFL -- with a max capacity some 1500 seats smaller than Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Soldier Field's size combined with the Bears' popularity has resulted in some of the most expensive tickets in the league, both on the primary market and the secondary market.

Here is a look at the stadium capacities from around the league:

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Alshon Jeffery Interview: Bears Wide Receiver Eager To Learn From WR Brandon Marshall

SB Nation's Amy K. Nelson met with newly-drafted WR Alshon Jeffery and got his impressions of the NFL Draft and his new teammates on the Chicago Bears:

The South Carolina Gamecocks product is currently in Los Angeles for the NFL Player's Association Rookie Weekend, and asked what he and the other rookies have done in LA, Jeffery reported he had tasted of full medley of the city:

We went to the mall. Hit up a few club spots ... And we went to Roscoe's Chicken, and I've never had that.

And what did he get at Roscoe's?

Some chicken and waffles! ... It was really good.

And what can he learn from WR Brandon Marshall?

Everything about becoming a Pro Bowl receiver and a great player. Whatever he tells me to do, whatever I need to do, to whatever I need to work on. I'm sure he's gonna tell me a lot, and I'm going to listen.

Marshall and Jeffery both join a Chicago Bears team that had the 7th fewest passing yards in the league with 3011 and 8th fewest passing touchdowns with just 18.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Matt Forte Contract Dispute: Bears Not The Only Team That Can Sign Forte, According To Report

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk is reporting the Chicago Bears are not only team able to sign RB Matt Forte. According to Florio, players such as Forte -- who have been offered, but have not signed franchise player tenders -- can still outside offers, though at a great cost:

Lost in the details regarding the operation of the franchise tag ... is the fact that, while restricted free agents go off the market before the draft, franchise and transition players remain available to be signed into May and beyond.

And so, in theory, if a team decides to pursue one of the non-exclusive franchise players, like Bears running back Matt Forte ... it can still happen. Specifically, the player would sign an offer sheet, the current team would have an opportunity to match it, and if the current team doesn’t match within a week, the current team would receive a first-round pick in 2013 and a first-round pick in 2014.

Given the incredible value of first round draft picks -- and the relatively low value of veteran running backs -- it is unlikely the Bears will have any offer sheets sent their way, but the possibility still exists in an ever-changing NFL environment.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Ranked No. 10 LB Corps In NFL On SB Nation Thanks To Brian Urlacher And Lance Briggs

The Chicago Bears are hoping to do big things in the 2012-13 NFL season, but they will need a big year out of the stars on their defense to make it happen. Julius Peppers, Charles Tillman, Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs have all been Pro Bowl-caliber players over the last few years, but do they have enough left in the tank for a big Super Bowl push?

Ryan Van Bibber of SB Nation has ranked the linebacker crops around the NFL, and he believes the Bears still have a unit in the top third of the league:

34-year-old Brian Urlacher wants to keep playing beyond this season, and given some of the other super star linebackers in their mid thirties, there is no reason to think he has to hang it up anytime soon. It will be interesting to see if he tests free agency next season. Lance Briggs is showing no signs of slowing down either.

Chicago's group also earned a higher ranking than their NFC North rivals. The Green Bay Packers came in at No. 11, the Detroit Lions reached No. 14 and the Minnesota Vikings earned the No. 15 spot.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears QB Jay Cutler No. 8 On List From ESPN Expert Ron Jaworski

The Chicago Bears have high hopes heading into the 2012-13 NFL season, and nearly everything hinges a strong season from quarterback Jay Cutler. With wide receiver Brandon Marshall in the fold and Michael Bush along to help Matt Forte in the backfield, Cutler finally has the weapons to maximize his immense talent. ESPN's Ron Jaworski has been ranking NFL signal callers throughout the summer in his QB Countdown Series, and after slotting Vikings starter Christian Ponder at No. 28 and Lions centerpiece Matthew Stafford at No. 14, he ranked Cutler as the No. 8 QB in the entire league.

"A couple of things about Cutler that still need to be addressed. His ball location can be a little erratic at times, and his red-zone efficiency must improve. Last season was his best in four years. He did not throw a red zone interception, but in the three previous seasons Cutler threw 13. That is not acceptable.

"Overall, I'm absolutely wowed by Cutler's ability to throw the football, even going back to his college career at Vanderbilt. Sure, he's exhibited some inconsistency in his six years in the NFL. He must clean up some poor decision-making tendencies. Of course he has to do that. But, if he can he will move into my top five."

Green Bay Packers starter Aaron Rodgers has not been listed yet, but Jaws' daily series ends on July 10 and there is no doubt Rodgers will end up near the top of the list.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Matt Forte Contract: Bears RB Will Play In 2012, Says 'I Don’t Think I Really Have A Choice'

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte has been at odds with the team over his contract status throughout the offseason, but he struck a particularly realistic tone during a talk with reporters at a charity event at Marist High School on Friday, June 29. Forte has yet to sign the $7.749 million franchise tender the Bears extended to him in the offseason, but when asked if he will suit up for Chicago or holdout, he confirmed that he will play for the Bears in 2012 (via Jon Greenberg of ESPN Chicago):

"I don't think I really have a choice, do I?" he said. "Yeah, I'll be here."

"I'm excited to get in there and talk to Mr. (Jeremy) Bates and get in there with Jay (Cutler) and see what he thinks about the passing game, and see how I can get involved in that, too."

Forte and the team still have until July 16 to reach a long-term deal, but training camp starts on July 26 and the team's starting running back did begin to talk about integrating himself into an offense that changed offensive coordinators since the end of 2011. As for his rehab from the knee injury he suffered last season, Forte noted he has been lifting and running and now feels he is "probably the healthiest I've been since coming out of college."

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Brian Urlacher Wants To Play More 2-3 Years, Will Enter Free Agency For First Time After This Season

Chicago Bears News: Civil Suit Against WR Brandon Marshall Dismissed

The ex-girlfriend of newly acquired Chicago Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall filed a civil lawsuit in 2009, accusing the reigning Pro Bowl MVP of two counts of battery and two counts of false imprisonment in June 2007 and March 2008. On Saturday, the suit was dismissed in Georgia State Court.

Rasheedah Watley, who had an on-again-off-again relationship with the receiver dating back to junior high, was seeking punitive damages.

This isn't the first time Marshall and Watley have had their differences. In 2009, a jury found Marshall not guilty of misdemeanor battery charges stemming from a fight with Watley.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Johnny Knox Injury: Bears WR Still Not Sure When He'll Return To The Field

Injured Bears wide receiver Johnny Knox says he's making progress, but he does not have a timetable for a return to the field in Chicago.

"No, for me I'm just taking it day by day," Knox said. "No rush. Like I've said, rehab is going well. I'm not trying to rush things and mess things up any worse, so I'm just taking it day by day."

Knox is jogging but has yet to run at full-speed, noting that he has "a lot of work to do" before he is ready to even consider coming back this season.

Related: Matt Forte Says He Won't Miss Season, Might Miss Start Of Training Camp

Up to his injury against Seattle on Dec. 18. Knox had caught 37 passes for 727 yards in 2011.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Matt Forte Says He Won't Miss Season, Might Miss Start Of Training Camp

The Chicago Bears and running back Matt Forte are apparently starting to make some sort of progress. On Friday, Forte told the Chicago Sun-Times the following:

"Last year we were worlds apart, but it’s gotten better," said Forte on Friday at the EA Madden 2013 Pigskin Pro-Am in Chicago.

WSCR reporter Zach Zaidman also got some interesting thoughts from Forte. The running back said he won't miss the 2012 season, but couldn't promise he'd be in Bourbonnais for the start of training camp without a long-term contract.

When thing that's comforting for Bears fans is that this nasty situation that has been hanging over the franchise for over a year now appears as if it's soon to be reaching some sort of conclusion. The best guess here is that Forte will play for the franchise, even if he doesn't like it. What's really unfortunate for the running back is the Bears will probably do it again next season, assuming Forte performs like a franchise player.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

2012 NFL Free Agency: Ex-Bears QB Nathan Enderle Signs With Jacksonville Jaguars

Quarterback Nathan Enderle has agreed to a deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars; this news comes a week after he was waived by the Chicago Bears. Enderle had a tough time making an impact in Chicago during the 2011 season.

Enderle was active just four times last year and failed to take a single snap in a regular-season game. It did not help matters for Enderle when [Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz] left the organization at the conclusion of last season, or when the organization signed Jason Campbell to serve as the primary backup to Cutler and re-signed veteran Josh McCown, who started the final few games of 2011 ahead of Enderle.

Related: 2012 Bears Offseason: Bears Sign Cory Brandon, Cornelius Brown

Enderle was the Bears' fifth round NFL Draft selection in 2011.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Brian Urlacher's Girlfriend Jenny McCarthy Texts Naked Picture To Her Son's Dentist

2012 Bears Offseason: Bears Sign Cory Brandon, Cornelius Brown

After waving quarterback Nathan Enderle and offensive guard Mansfield Wrotto, the Chicago Bears found themselves with two open spots on their 90-man roster. Those two spots, though, have been quickly filled, after the Bears signed OT Cory Brandon and CB Cornelius Brown.

2012 Bears Offseason: McClellin To Push For Starting Spot

When the Chicago Bears selected Shea McClellin in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, the expectation was that he would make an immediate impact as a rookie. While he won't be guaranteed a starting spot on the defensive line with the return of Julius Peppers and Israel Idonije, ESPN's NFC North blog reports that defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli has been impressed by the Boise St. product:

"He can move well. He's got really good movement. He's got really good speed. He's got nice range. His size is fine. He's a real hungry guy and he's very smart. I know he's tough. We'll get the pads on him. That determines everything. I believe he'll come out and do a very nice job, but the movement, all the things you look for, it's there."

Idonije, who started opposite of Peppers last season, recorded five sacks and a forced fumble. The addition of McClellin should make the pass rush even more dangerous for the Bears.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on theChicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Video: Jay Cutler Throws Passes To Brandon Marshall To The Delight Of Everyone

2012 Bears Offseason: Dane Sanzenbacher Knows Roster Spot Isn't Guaranteed

Despite having an impressive rookie season relative to expectations, Chicago Bears wide receiver Dane Sanzenbacher told the Chicago Tribune's Fred Mitchell that he knows his roster spot for 2012 will need to be earned. After the team added new passing weapons during the offseason, Sanzenbacher is competing to simply make the team next season:

You've got to do whatever (it takes). There are a lot of guys, a lot of talent in that room. They brought some new guys in. The best guys are going to stand out in the end. Got to make plays, got to keep yourself in it.

Since last season, the Bears have traded for Brandon Marshall and drafted Alshon Jeffery to bolster a group of receivers that had been considered to be a weakness. This has bumped Sanzenbacher down the depth chart, leaving him to compete with another acquisition, Devin Thomas, for the sixth wide receiver spot on the active roster.

In 2011, Sanzenbacher caught 27 passes for 276 yards and three touchdowns over 16 games, including one start. An undrafted 23-year-old out of Ohio State, he set a career high in Week 5 by making six catches for 64 yards against the Detroit Lions.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on theChicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

2012 Bears Offseason: Brandon Hardin Adjusting To Safety Position

Brandon Hardin -- the Bears' third round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft -- is transitioning from cornerback to safety, and that adjustment has given him a lot of new things to think about.

"There is somewhat of a learning curve," Hardin said. "I'm thinking a lot more, playing a new position. I'm still thinking somewhat about the drops, trying to get quarterback reads, what the receivers are doing. The coaches tell me it will all come second nature eventually."

Related: Bears fans; Who is your all time Public Enemy No. 1?

Hardin racked up 105 tackles and one interception in 38 games as a cornerback at Oregon State. Injuries kept him from playing in 2011.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears Waive QB Nathan Enderle

On Thursday the Chicago Bears announced that they were parting pays with reserve quarterback Nathan Enderle.

LM: After concluding three-day minicamp, #Bears waive second-year QB Nathan Enderle.

— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) June 14, 2012

Related: Bears Offseason 2012: Devin Hester Still No. 1 Kickoff Return Man

Enderle was the Bears' fifth round selection in the 2012 NFL Draft and has yet to play a snap in a game. Enderle had an outstanding college career with the Idaho Vandals, throwing for over 10,000 yards; he threw 74 touchdown passes but also proved mistake-prone and finished his four-year career with 60 interceptions.

There has been no word yet about where he might land next.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears QB Jason Campbell Rated No. 2 Backup In NFL

Chicago Bears general manager Phil Emery moved quickly in the off-season to shore up the team's quarterback depth by grabbing veteran QB Jason Campbell, and if Campbell is needed at any point this year things should go a lot better than they did during the Caleb Hanie experience. In fact, Dan Hanzus of NFL.com took the time to rank the top backup QBs in the NFL and Campbell fit in as the second-best replacement signal caller in the NFL, behind former Bears QB Kyle Orton (now with the Dallas Cowboys).

To get an idea of just how well the Bears did in landing Campbell as the backup to Jay Cutler, take note that the other QBs to make the list included Tim Tebow at No. 3, Jake Locker at No. 4 and T.J. Yates at No. 5. Nobody in that trio has a proven track-record in the NFL, while Campbell has a 60.8 percent completion mark and has thrown for 14,417 yards with 74 touchdowns over his NFL career. As Hanzus notes: " Campbell has a big arm, and could form a potent tandem with Brandon Marshall if ever given the chance." Layer Mayer of the team website also points out that Campbell's 82.8 career passer rating would rank No. 1 all-time in Bears history.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Release OG Mansfield Wrotto

On Thursday, the Chicago Bears released veteran offensive guard Mansfield Wrotto as they continue to shave down their roster during minicamp. Wrotto briefly practiced with the first-team at right tackle during the off-season while Gabe Carimi continued to recover from last season's knee injury, but the team decided they could move on without the former fourth-round pick (No. 124 overall) from the 2007 NFL Draft.

Wrotto has started 12 games and played in 27 during his four-year NFL career, and now he will be looking to land on another NFL team as the minicamp process moves forward.

LM: #Bears have released veteran guard Mansfield Wrotto.

— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) June 14, 2012

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Offseason 2012: Devin Hester Still No. 1 Kickoff Return Man

Chicago special teams coordinator Dave Toub made it clear on Wednesday that Devin Hester is still the team's top kick returner going into next season, as Jeff Dickerson of ESPN Chicago reports. The Bears recently signed former Pro Bowl kick returner Eric Weems, leaving some to wonder whether Hester might see some sort of change in role.

[Hester’s] still our No. 1 kickoff returner. So when we need a big one Devin is going to be in there. We have the luxury of having Eric Weems, so there will be times when we have them both back there.

In 2010, Weems made the Pro Bowl as a 25-year-old with the Atlanta Falcons. Dickerson says that he's likely to contribute in other areas than the return game, which makes sense given that Hester likely won't be giving up his spot as the top kick returner any time soon.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on theChicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Father's Day Gift Ideas: Dad Will Love These Chicago Bears Jeans!

Chicago Bears News: Lovie Smith Expects Brian Urlacher To Be Ready For Training Camp

The Chicago Bears didn't just do damage to their draft pick by winning the final game of the 2011 regular season against the Minnesota Vikings. Their star middle linebacker also suffered a relatively severe injury that continues to keep him out of minicamp.

As the Bears opened a veteran mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, Brian Urlacher was on the sidelines. Urlacher is still recovering from a sprained medial collateral ligament and a partially sprained posterior cruciate ligament that came in the regular season finale at the Metrodome.

Head coach Lovie Smith said he expects Urlacher to be ready to get back on the practice field when training camp opens on July 26 in Bourbonnais.

''It's not a lot to explain. He's not ready to go yet,'' Smith said after Tuesday's practice. ''He's on pace. Our plan was to take it slow with him.

''We know what Brian can do. It's not like he's going to tell us an awful lot out here. He's right on pace [and] he should be able to get a good rest of his offseason in and be good to go for training camp.''

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Offseason 2012: Chicago Waives CB Donovan Warren

The Chicago Bears have decided to part ways with cornerback Donovan Warren.

Bears waive cornerback Donovan Warren.

— Jeff Dickerson (@ESPNChiBears) June 12, 2012

Related: WCG Interviews Shea McClellin: Give Your Sole at the Chicago 13.1 Marathon

Warren has struggled to find a permanent home in the NFL since signing with the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2010. After the Jets waived him that year, he signed with the Steelers and eventually was cut again. He then had a brief stop with the Detroit Lions before signing a reserve/future contract with the Bears in January of 2012. The Michigan alum has yet to play in an NFL game.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Offseason 2012: QB Jay Cutler Uncertain About Offensive Line

The Chicago Bears allowed a sack on 9.4% of their pass plays, good for second-worst in the NFL and a total of 49 sacks in the 2011 season. And unsurprisingly, the Bears sack-recipient, QB Jay Cutler, is a little worried about the offensive line's development:

"You always want to be pro-Bears and compliment your teammates and stuff but ... over a three-year career here (the offensive line is) definitely at the forefront of my mind ever year. Until we get those front five hammered down we're still kind of up in the air offensively even though we've got some really, really talented guys on the outside."

Chicago hopes to improve on their 8-8 record in the 2012 season, having added WR Brandon Marshall and free agents QB Jason Campbell and RB Michael Bush.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Offseason 2012: Sports Illustrated Looks At Where Chicago Stands Heading Into Season

The Chicago Bears had an eventful offseason, hiring new GM Phil Emery, who traded for wide receiver Brandon Marshall, signed running back Michael Bush and completed his first draft class. But the Bears have plenty of questions heading into the 2012 season, and SI.com is asking a few of them in their Bears offseason breakdown.

Bears Offseason 2012: DT Matt Toeaina Will Be Ready For Camp Despite Injury

Chicago Bears defensive tackle Matt Toeaina broke his hand during a recent OTA when he hit the helmet of teammate Jordan MIller, but the injury won't keep the veteran lineman out the team's three-day veteran minicamp, which kicks off on Tuesday. Toeaini told reporters that he initially thought he had merely suffered a sprain, but a reevaluation by head trainer Chris Hanks revealed that he had broken his right hand.

Bears Offseason 2012: Jeffery Poised To Make Immediate Impact

As is often the case, heading into the 2012 NFL Draft, everyone was focused on all the negatives that Alshon Jeffery displayed during his final season at South Carolina. Critics noticed that Jeffrey suffered a steep decline in production, catching only 49 passes after reeling in 88 the season before. Despite the drop in production, the Chicago Bears had no problem selecting Jeffery with the 45th pick in the draft, and the early returns have all been positive.

According to an interview with ESPNChicago, Jeffery has been very impressive during his short time with the Bears, leading Mike Tice to explain that the rookie will make an immediate contribution:

After the first day of rookie camp, Bears offensive coordinator Mike Tice described Jeffery "picking peanuts off some guys’ heads."

"You can tell that he’s going to be a playmaker for the Bears for 2012, and hopefully for many years to come," Tice said.

After dealing with inconsistent quarterback play throughout his time at South Carolina, Jeffery is certainly relishing the opportunity to play with a proven QB like Jay Cutler:

"Jay Cutler is a great quarterback," he said. "He’s always joking with me all the time. I just love being around him and learning from him and trying to understand the game from his mind."

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears QB Jay Cutler Would Be 'Shocked' If Matt Forte Doesn't Sign Tender By July 15

The Chicago Bears have executed some heady moves during the 2012 NFL offseason, but they still have one big issue hanging around. The signing of running back Michael Bush and the trade for wide receiver Brandon Marshall should make the offense more potent for Jay Cutler and company, but Matt Forte could certainly add another dimension for defenses to consider. Unfortunately, he is in a contract dispute with the team and has yet to sign his $7.7 million franchise tender. The deadline to reach a multi-year agreement is July 16 -- just nine days before training camp starts -- and Cutler says he expects Forte to sign his tender by then, as he stated on Friday during ESPN 1000's "Waddle & Silvy Show."

"I would be shocked if he doesn't sign his tender by July 15, or whenever it is, and he shows up. It would really be a surprise to me (if Forte misses time in training camp). At the end of the day, I think Matt knows it's business. He's still getting seven-whatever-million dollars to play this year. So he's gonna show up."

It's a low-risk statement for Cutler, as it's not his money or future on the line, and he even hedged his bets a bit along the way by saying Michael Bush can "get the job done if need be" as well. Forte is still looking for a long-term contract after earning Pro Bowl honors in 2011 by rushing for 997 yards (4.9 yards per carry), and catching 52 passes for 490 receiving yards (9.4 yards per reception).

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Matt Forte, Lance Briggs And The Revisionist History Of Contract Disputes With The Chicago Bears

Matt Forte isn't the first member of the Chicago Bears to feel insulted by the franchise tag, and he won't be the last. The Forte situation mirrors the one Lance Briggs went through in 2007, writes SB Nation Chicago editor Ricky O'Donnell.

Chicago Bears Rumors: Is Henry Melton The Next 'Refrigerator' Perry?

Bears Offseason 2012: Chicago Says Hester's Kick Returning Will Be Limited

Even at age 29, Chicago Bears wide receiver and returner Devin Hester remains one of the team's most electric players. But as the Bears continue to try and utilize Hester better on offense, head coach Lovie Smith told reporters that his time as a kick returner will be severely limited. That said, Hester, who has five career touchdowns as a kick returner, is still expected to take the majority of the team's punt returns.

The writing for this move was on the wall when the Bears signed Eric Weems away from the Atlanta Falcons. Weems is nominally a wide receiver, but he's known for his special teams play and will likely return most of the kicks while also working on the coverage teams.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears Training Camp Schedule: Team Starts Practice In Bourbonnais On July 26

Don't get it twisted: Chicago is a football town through and through. This city loves the Bears more than the rest of the tired stereotypes tied to our humble metropolis combined.

Related: O'Donnell: The Annual False Hope Of Devin Hester, Wide Receiver

On Tuesday, we learned when you can finally book that trip to Bourbonnais: the Bears will host training camp at the campus of Olivet Nazarene University from July 26-Aug. 16. This will be the 11th year the Bears have been away from Platteville, Wis., a place I spent many underwhelming childhood vacations.

Here's a look at the team's training camp schedule:

July 26: 2:30 p.m. (NO PADS)
July 27: 2:30 p.m. (NO PADS)
July 28: 7 p.m.
July 29: 2 p.m.
July 31: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 1: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 2: 2 p.m.
Aug. 3: 7 p.m. (Soldier Field)
Aug. 5: 2 p.m.
Aug. 6: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 7: 2 p.m.
Aug. 11: 2 p.m.
Aug. 12: 2:30 p.m.
Aug. 13: 7 p.m.
Aug. 14: 2 p.m.
Aug. 16: 2 p.m.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

2012 Bears Offseason: Devin Hester Says He May 'Never Be A No. 1 Receiver'

The Chicago Bears offseason is underway and the latest news from the offensive side is that WR Devin Hester is having the best camp of the all the receivers. But that does not mean the dynamic kick returner will be taking playing time away from WR Brandon Marshall. According to Hester, the Bears latest acquisition should not worry about losing the No. 1 spot to Hester, who is looking for his own niche:

"I can just sit back and play now," Hester told CSNChicago.com. "Everybody wanted me to be the No. 1 receiver. I might never be a No. 1 receiver. But I’ll be Devin Hester. That’s it. That’s my mindset."

Hester has struggled since becoming the team's top receiver in 2009. As a wideout, Hester has caught for only 2565 yards over five seasons, averaging only 2.1 receptions per game and 27.9 yards per game.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Johnny Knox Injury: Devin Hester Is Doing All He Can For His Friend

Chicago Bears wide receiver Johnny Knox suffered a broken vertebrae during the team's Week 15 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in 2011, and he has been hard at work trying to rehab from that brutal injury ever since. He lost over 30 pounds during his recovery from spinal surgery, and now it's unclear when he will be back in a Bears uniform.

Devin Hester has been encouraging Knox at every turn, and it goes well beyond football, as Knox told Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune on Thursday:

"Devin has been there for me on and off the field throughout my career," Knox said. "He's someone I've always looked up to since the first day I got here. He is someone I truly trust as a friend."

"...He has been more worried about my health than if or when I am going to return to the field. That means a lot to me -- that he is more concerned about my health than when I am going to play again."

On Wednesday, Hester got emotional talking about the injury, saying he is very close with Knox and that it hurts him because "he's like a little brother to me."

Nobody knows exactly when Knox could return to the field. He admitted there is a chance he could miss the 2012 season, but after such a serious injury everyone is still focused on his overall health going forward in life. That's exactly how it should be, too.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

2012 Bears Offseason: Chicago Plans For Devin Hester-Specific Packages

Chicago Bears wide receiver and general playmaker Devin Hester thinks that the team will finally implement some offensive packages built specifically around his unique skills this year, as Jeff Dickerson of ESPN Chicago writes.

Hester has had an inconsistent role on offense over the past five years, but he's excited about having packages built around him:

This offense, I really do truly think that (offensive coordinator) Mike Tice and (quarterbacks coach) Jeremy Bates and those guys really want to put this in this year. I'm looking forward to it and Mike Tice is more excited than anybody in this organization about putting in this Hester package. So if anybody, he's the guy that's going to control that.

At his peak as a receiver, Hester caught 57 balls for 757 yards with Chicago in 2009. Last season, he put up his lowest totals since 2007, but he's also had a massive role in special teams as one of the game's elite kick returners.

The Bears have long tried to figure out how to take his abilities with the ball and turn them into production on offense, but the results have always been mixed.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Gabe Carimi Injury: Bears RT Returns To Practice For 1st Time Since Dislocating Knee Cap

Chicago Bears offensive lineman Gabe Carimi's rookie season was cut short after he dislocated a kneecap in Week 2 of the 2011 season. The injury has made for a long road back to the field, but he was finally able to return to Bears practice on Tuesday.

First day Back at practice went great. Just need to keep up the hard work to get back where I want to be.

— Gabe Carimi (@GabeCarimi) May 29, 2012

Related: Forte's Use of Twitvid to Dispel Rumors Displays Thin Skin

So far so good for Carimi, who is hoping that he'll be able to step right back into a starting role at right tackle.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis, be sure to visit Bears blog Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

2012 Bears Offseason: Linebacker Dom DeCicco Learning In Absence Of Brian Urlacher

With LB Brian Urlacher sidelined while he recovers from knee surgery, second-year Chicago Bears linebacker Dom DeCicco has been taking reps with the starting defense. And the experience, he says, has been priceless:

"It’s really invaluable just being out there with the [veteran] guys," DeCicco said. "It makes you want to know your stuff even more because you don’t want to let anybody down. Playing alongside Lance [Briggs] and Nick [Roach], I’ve learned a lot and they’ve been nothing but help."

And the Bears coaches have noticed the effect. DeCicco entered the NFL in 2011, when a lockout abbreviated the NFL offseason, but he has been able to make up for the lost time in 2012:

"Losing all of the offseason workouts last year, I think he lost out on some basic fundamentals," said linebackers coach Bob Babich. "We did move him to middle linebacker part way into training camp. He was playing outside linebacker. So I think this has been really good for him. These reps are quality reps that are just going to help make him better."

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

2012 Bears Offseason: Bears GM Thinks WR Brandon Marshall Fits Well In Chicago

Early in the 2012 NFL Offseason, the Chicago Bears acquired QB Jay Cutler's former Denver target, trading for WR Brandon Marshall. The former Miami Dolphins wide receiver came to the Bears with a history of off-field problems, but the Bears GM, Phil Emery, thinks Marshall can move on from his history:

"He's an intelligent guy, and he's accepted his faults, and he's working toward improving them," Emery said. "I thought about it a lot. Isn't that what we'd want out of our children? They might stumble, but when they do, they seriously try to improve their lives. We felt if there was a place Brandon would fit, it was here."

Shortly after being acquired, Marshall became embroiled in a nightclub controversy for which he has since been cleared of all charges.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Matt Forte Update: Chicago Bears Concerned About Running Back's Knees, According To Report

Brian Urlacher Is Dating Jenny McCarthy, OMG You Guys!

Bears Offseason 2012: Linebacker Brian Urlacher Eager To Stay In Chicago, But May Test Market

The Chicago Bears star linebacker is in the final year of his contract, but does not know whether the team will offer him an extension for the 2013 NFL season. LB Brian Urlacher spoke about his contract situation on the Waddle and Silvy Show on ESPN 1000, apparently intrigued by the possibilities of free agency:

"I think (team president) Ted Phillips said when they had the owners meeting they're gonna wait until the season is over; see what happens, how I play ... It's kind of exciting. I've never been a free agent. So if I can get to free agency we'll see what happens. I no doubt want to finish my career here. There's no doubt about that. But you bring in free agency and all that you just never know what's gonna happen."

Urlacher has played all 12 of his NFL season with the Chicago Bears. He will be 34 years old during the 2012 NFL season.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

The Annual False Hope Of Devin Hester, Wide Receiver

As the Chicago Bears continue OTA workouts, quarterback Jay Cutler went out of his way to spotlight wide receiver Devin Hester. In what's becoming an annual right of passage, the Bears are showing they have immense faith in Hester's pass catching skills. Is this the year he lives up to the promise?

VIDEO: Bears WR Alshon Jeffrey Gets Interviewed By Robert Griffin III

Brandon Marshall Highly Productive In Cold Weather

NFL 2012 Odds: Bears Predicted To Finish Below Lions And Packers

The Chicago Bears added Brandon Marshall and Michael Bush to the offense during the offseason, and Jay Cutler will be ready to go when the season starts, but Nevada bookmaker Cantor Gaming -- the first Nevada bookmaker to release NFL season win totals so far -- doesn't think the Bears are quite ready to jump the Detroit Lions or the Green Bay Packers.

The line for the Packers is set at 12 wins while the Lions are a 9.5, the Bears hover at 8.5 and the Vikings are at just 6 wins. For more win total odds across the NFL and beyond the NFC North, here are the early lines via Covers.com:

Green Bay Packers
Over 12 wins -125
Under 12 wins -105

Detroit Lions
Over 9.5 wins +105
Under 9.5 wins -135

Chicago Bears
Over 8.5 wins -135
Under 8.5 wins +10

Minnesota Vikings
Over 6 wins Even
Under 6 wins -130

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Could The Chicago Bears Give Jay Cutler A Contract Extension Before Matt Forte?

The Chicago Bears are a team loaded with veteran talent, and they are making a push towards the Super Bowl right now, but don't think general manager Phil Emery is neglecting the future. Jay Cutler, Michael Bush, Brandon Marshall, Matt Forte, Julius Peppers, Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs and Charles Tillman are all close enough to their primes right now to pursue a Super Bowl in the short-term, but the franchise needs to starting thinking about how to allocate their money going forward as well.

Running back Matt Forte has been absent during the team's OTAs due to a contract dispute, but David Haugh of the Chicago Tribuune says he wouldn't be shocked if the Bears lock up Jay Cutler to a long-term extension before addressing Forte's demands.

The Bears control Forte's rights under the Franchise Tag -- a collectively bargained tool available to the team for two seasons -- and running backs are typically a poor investment over the long-term in the NFL, but Cutler is just 29 years old and has two years remaining on the five-year, $50 million extension he signed with the Bears back in 2009. If Emery could lock up his franchise quarterback on an even longer deal now, Haugh argues the team would be spending their money wisely and controlling their salary cap situation by creating stability at the game's most important position going forward.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Johnny Knox Injury: Bears WR Down To 165 Pounds, Trying To Stay Optimistic

Chicago Bears wide receiver Johnny Knox suffered a broken vertebrae during the team's Week 15 loss to the Seattle Seahawks -- one of the most brutal injuries of recent memory in the NFL -- and there has been plenty of speculation he could miss the 2012 NFL season after successful surgery in December, but the young WR is trying to stay in good spirits.

He lost 30 pounds during his recovery, but Knox says he has added 10 pounds back to his frame in rehab. It still leaves the speedy wideout at just 165 pounds, and Knox told Mark Potash of the Chicago Sun-Times that he is focused on trying to add strength right now:

''My main focus is in the weight room. I'm not in a rush. This is my spine, the core of my body I'm dealing with. It's not my knee or ankle or shoulder. I'm taking my time...I'm doing great. I'm feeling a lot better from Day One. Getting stronger. Working on some things to get stronger in my lower body and my back. Most importantly, mentally, too.''

Knox still hasn't seen a replay of the hit, and said he likely won't until he retires from the game. As for when he might be back on the field, don't expect it to happen quickly.

In February, Knox's agent, Mark Lillibridge, suggested Knox was on pace for a return in mid-July, but Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune reported in March that Knox was expected to be placed on the team's Physically Unable to Preform list prior to the start of the 2012 season -- which would make him ineligible to play in first six weeks of the season. McClure noted that Knox could miss the season back in March, and Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune mentioned in his May 13 column that "Knox will likely miss the season."

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears Sign DT Nate Collins

The Chicago Bears reached the 90-man roster limit on Wednesday by inking former Jacksonville Jaguars defensive tackle Nate Collins. Collins is a two-year veteran who stuck with the Jags after going undrafted out of University of Virginia. The signing brings the Bears' roster to 90 players, which is the league limit.

Collins appeared in 12 games for the Jaguars last season, recording 10 tackles, half a sack and one fumble recovery. The defensive tackle record six sacks for the Cavaliers as a college senior.

Collins was arrested and charged him with possession of marijuana in Virginia earlier this year. Following the arrest, Jacksonville rescinded the exclusive-rights free agent tender the team had originally offered.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chris Williams, D'Marcus Webb Split Left Tackle Duties During OTA's

With high expectations going into next season and a pretty weak summer for Chicago baseball, eyes around the city are already turning to the Bears as a source of hope. One aspect of the team that's getting particular attention early in offseason workouts is the offensive line given how much it has struggled over the past few years.

On Wednesday, the team took the field to begin organized team activities in the next part of the offseason process. There were some new faces on the offensive line as the team tries to re-configure things in the hopes of keeping Jay Cutler upright more frequently in 2012. The first team offensive line went as follows:

Left tackle: Chris Williams, D'Marcus Webb split reps

Left guard: Chris Spencer

Center: Roberto Garza

Right guard: Lance Louis

Left tackle: Mansfield Wrotto

After acquiring numerous playmakers for the offense, the Bears have mostly chosen to stand pat with the offensive line. Wrotto was signed in December 2011 to give the team some depth, but former first-round picks Chris Williams and Gabe Carimi will need to be impact players after being injury-plagued last season.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears Adjusting Well To Mike Tice's Simplified Offense

The Chicago Bears have been adjusting well to the altered offensive schemes under new offensive coordinator Mike Tice, as tight end Matt Spaeth tells Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune. Tice was promoted during the offseason after the team fired Mike Martz following a disappointing two-year run with the team.

Spaeth, a five-year veteran that's also played for Pittsburgh, thinks that Tice's simplified planning will prove to be beneficial:

I can only speak for last year and it was, at times, very confusing. You were still kind of second-guessing yourself as to what you were supposed to be doing. And when you’re doing that, you’re never playing full-speed. ... We have pretty much our whole offense in already, and guys get it. It makes sense.

Calls for Martz's ouster got louder as last season went on, especially after the team's unfortunate breakdown following the season-ending injury of quarterback Jay Cutler. With the new offense in place and additional weapons like Brandon Marshall, Michael Bush and Alshon Jeffery adding new layers, expectations should be high for that unit this year.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Bears Roster 2012: Johnny Knox May Miss 2012 Season With Back Injury

Chicago Bears wide receiver Johnny Knox told reporters on Wednesday that he may end up missing the entire 2012 season with his back injury, as Jeff Dickerson of ESPN Chicago reports. Knox suffered the harrowing injury against the Seattle Seahawks last season, an event that appeared bad enough to wonder whether he may ever play again.

According to Dickerson, Knox told reporters on Wednesday that he lost roughly 30 pounds after the surgery required to help his injuries, and he's only gained back about ten of those pounds. He said that he continues to make effort in his rehab, but it's not clear how much progress he'll ultimately be able to make.

Without Knox, the Bears will need to turn to their new weapons for passing offense in 2012. Last season, he caught 37 balls for 727 yards and two touchdowns as Chicago's leading receiver. Without him, Brandon Marshall, Earl Bennett, Devin Hester and rookie Alshon Jeffery will likely be the team's primary wideouts.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Brian Urlacher Injury: Bears LB Likely Won't Return Until Training Camp

Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher doesn't expect to participate in any of this year's organized team activities as he tries to recover from a serious knee injury that he suffered at the end of last season, according to CBS Chicago. Rather than push himself to return for voluntary OTA's, the linebacker plans on returning for minicamp from June 12-14.

It’s getting better. I’m on schedule, so I feel good. At this stage, I know the defense pretty well. I’m not worried about being out there and not knowing what I’m doing.

There are still nine remaining organized team activities for Chicago, but Urlacher likely won't be joining the team for any of them. He sprained the medial collateral and posterior cruciate ligaments in his left knee during the Bears' season finale against the Vikings on Jan. 1.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Brian Urlacher Injury: Bears LB Skips 1st Day Of OTAs, On Schedule For Training Camp

Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher is recovering from a major knee injury, and not surprisingly, he did not participate in OTAs on Tuesday. But he should be ready to participate in drills by the time training camp starts, according to Vaughn McClure.

Brian Urlacher did not participate in the first day of OTAS today but he's not concerned about his knee/ 100 % on track for training camp.

— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) May 22, 2012

Related: Chicago Bears Begin Final Phase Of Voluntary Offseason Program

Urlacher highly unlikely to do much until training camp.

— vaughn mcclure (@vxmcclure23) May 23, 2012

Urlacher finished the 2011 season with 102 tackles and three interceptions.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation's NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Reminder: The Bears Have More Than Enough Cap Space To Give Matt Forte An Extension

Chicago Bears Begin Final Phase Of Voluntary Offseason Program

The Chicago Bears will open the third and final phase of NFL's voluntary offseason program today at Halas Hall with the first of 10 OTA (organize team activity) workouts. The 10 practices will be spread out over a period of four weeks.

Related: Chicago Bears OTA Workouts: Voluntary Practices Begin Tuesday

This will be the first offseason training program in which both helmets and coaches on the field are permitted. There's still plenty the Bears aren't allowed to work on, though. One-on-one drills in which an offensive player goes against a defensive player are prohibited. Charles Tillman and the rest of the Bears defensive backs will have to wait until training camp to take on Brandon Marshall.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Kellen Winslow Jr. Traded To Seattle Seahawks

A day ago, we wondered if disgruntled Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. would be a nice fit on the Chicago Bears' offense. That discussion can end now that the Seattle Seahawks have sent a conditional future draft pick to Tampa in exchange for Winslow. The Miami product will team with Zach Miller to give Seattle what might be the best 1-2 punch at tight end in the AFC this side of New England.

Barring something unforeseen, the Bears will head into training camp with Kellen Davis Jr., Matt Spaeth and rookie Evan Rodriguez at tight end. Hopes will be high for Rodriguez to emerge as a threat, though Davis figures to be the Week 1 starter if he stays healthy. Davis finished last season with 18 catches for 205 yards and five touchdowns.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Could The Chicago Bears Be Interested In Buccaneers Tight End Kellen Winslow Jr.?

Veteran tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is on the trading block, and may eventually be released before training camp begins. Could the Chicago Bears be interested in adding the former Miami Hurricane? It makes sense, at least on paper.

The Bears' tight ends left a lot to be desired last season after the team traded fan favorite Greg Olsen before the year started. Kellen Davis returns and fourth round draft pick Evan Rodriguez was just added to the roster, but Winslow is certainly more established than either. He probably needs to prove he's healthy before any team will take a flyer on him. Winslow has bad knees, but has still been fairly productive the last few years.

In 2011, Winslow caught 75 passes for 763 yards and two touchdowns.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears, be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. And drop by SB Nation NFL news hub for more updates and commentary from around the league.

Chicago Bears OTA Workouts: Voluntary Practices Begin Tuesday

The Chicago Bears begin OTA workouts on Tuesday.