The Chicago Bears are still in need of depth at defensive end, wide receiver, running back and along the offensive line, but according to Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times the Bears only have $7.5 million in salary cap space remaining to make additions in 2012. That doesn't necessarily mean Chicago is stuck with bargain options, as Jensen explains:
#Bears are down to $7.5 million in salary cap space, according to two league sources. Restructures and extensions COULD create more room
— Sean Jensen (@skjensen) March 20, 2012
Matt Forte could help out if the Bears reach a deal on an extension and load the contract to push down the large $7M+ cap hold currently on the books under the franchise tag tender. Would other veterans like Brian Urlacher or Julius Peppers allow contract guru Cliff Stein to shift around some money if it meant adding a big name that would help the team compete for a Super Bowl? It's likely up to GM Phil Emery to reel in a big enough fish to even start that conversation.
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 for more news and notes around the league.
