REPORT: Brian Urlacher Close to Signing with Minnesota Vikings
Nov 25, 2012; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher (54) tackles Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) during the second half at Soldier Field. The Bears beat the Vikings 28-10. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Sun Times gossip columnist Michael Sneed reports that former Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher is close to signing a 1-2 year contract with the Minnesota Vikings.
"The pigskin file . . .Sneed hears that former Chicago Bear Brian Urlacher, whose stellar, longtime career with the Bears began with a growl and ended with a whimper, is getting close to finding a new pigskin playground.Sneed is told that Urlacher, whose decision to leave the Bears followed their offer of a $1.6 million renewal contract, has been talking to the Minnesota Vikings and the Denver Broncos. “It’s getting close to happening, but Brian is leaning toward heading to Minnesota and is talking a one to two year contract,” said a source close to Urlacher.Stay tuned."
I’m not surprised that Urlacher is getting some traction with the Vikings. While they had a great draft, they didn’t address their middle linebacker spot yet. If he has anything left in the tank, Urlacher would be a great fit for Leslie Frazier’s defense. And don’t think that Urlacher isn’t licking his chops at a chance to face the Bears twice every year to prove to the Bears that they made a big mistake by not signing him to the big money deal that he sought at the start of free agency. I would have to think that the asking price has gone down substantially as June is right around the corner.
I think the better move for Urlacher would be to go to the Broncos if he wants a chance at a ring. With Peyton Manning and the core the Broncos have in place, #54 might have a chance to get the one thing that’s eluded him in Chicago, a Super Bowl ring. While the Vikings made the playoffs last season, I can’t see Christian Ponder leading them to big game.
What do you think? Can you imagine Urlacher in the Purple and Gold? Would you cheer for him when he returns to Soldier Field in Week 2? Let’s see your Comments!