The Chicago Bears have been looking for a solid second running back every since they traded away Thomas Jones to clear the way for Cedric Benson years ago, and now it appears they think former Oakland Raiders running back Michael Bush is the man. According to multiple reports, including ones from David Haugh of the Chicago Tribune and Adam Schefter of ESPN, the Bears agreed to terms with Bush on a four-year deal worth $14 million with $7 million guaranteed on Thursday.
Goodbye, Marion Barber; hello Matt Forte holdout? Bears sign RB Michael Bush to 4-year, $14M contract--$7M guaranteed. Price of insurance.
— David Haugh (@DavidHaugh) March 22, 2012
Bush turns 28 in June, and he becomes the next man up if the Bears are unable to sign RB Matt Forte to an extension or if Forte decides to hold out instead of play under the franchise tag. The Bush deal looks like great value, considering he has rushed for 2,642 yards and 21 touchdowns on 632 carries (a 4.2 yards per carry average) in 61 games and 16 starts during his four-year NFL career.
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