The Bears added some needed depth at two positions on the defensive line Tuesday but it didn’t have anything to do with a man who can play both roles.
Israel Idonije remains a free agent and one source indicated the door has not been closed on a possible return after he had 71/2 sacks last season. But the team isn’t standing pat, adding end Kyle Moore and tackle Andre Fluellen on Tuesday, a week before a voluntary minicamp at Halas Hall.
The Bears have made an offer to Idonije, 32, and it is for less than the $2.5 million he earned last season. Obviously, he either has not gotten a better offer elsewhere or is reluctant to pick up and move after nine seasons as a versatile performer for the club.
Moore, a fourth-round pick of the Buccaneers from USC in 2009, had a bit of a breakout season for the Bills last year. He made three sacks and started seven of the last eight games at right end after former Bear Mark Anderson was injured. Moore, 26, had arthroscopic knee surgery in January and reports at the time were the Bills hoped to bring him back. That didn’t happen and now he can compete for a spot as a role player. Pro Football Focus credited the 6-6, 263-pounder with 22 quarterback hurries in 2012, 30th in the NFL.
Fluellen, a third-round pick of the Lions in 2008, spent time last season with the Lions and Dolphins. The 6-2, 302-pounder has played in 56 career games with 21/2 sacks. Fluellen, 28, adds depth where the Bears are in need after the loss of Matt Toeaina and Amobi Okoye not to mention Idonije if he does not return.
_________________ favrefan said:"Chris Coghlan isn't gonna pay your rent, Jimmy."
|