Chicago Bears Meet with Brian Urlacher’s Agent to Talk Contract

Dec. 23, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; Chicago Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher (54) looks on prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

NFL.com’s Albert Breer is reporting that Brian Urlacher’s people met with representatives from the Chicago Bears to talk about a contract to bring the 14 year veteran back.  Both Marc Trestman and Phil Emery have sidestepped the question about Urlacher’s future since the offseason started.  This might be the most telling statement about the face of the franchise:

"The Chicago Bears and Brian Urlacher’s agents have met in Indianapolis to discuss the veteran linebacker’s contract situation, a source briefed on the situation said Saturday.The source termed the talks between the sides as “preliminary,” but the Bears have made it clear they would like to have Urlacher back next season."

Don’t brush past that last part – the Bears have made it clear they would like to have Urlacher back next season.  That’s the most we’ve heard about their plans for #54 since Trestman came aboard.  I wonder if this is the Bears’ way of putting a little pressure back on Urlacher, to say they want him back.

As long as they make a reasonable offer, it sounds like Urlacher will be back next season.  Given their limited cap space and the need to re-sign Nick Roach or another LB, don’t expect a big money deal.  I’d be surprised if the Bears offered any more than a couple million per season.  Don’t forget that the Bears also made Olin Kreutz an offer before things went south and he ended up bolting.