Charles Tillman Signs With Carolina Panthers
Dec 21, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Charles Tillman (33) during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
It’s the end of an era, Chicago Bears fans. Charles Tillman has signed with the Carolina Panthers, ending his twelve-year run with the Chicago Bears. Adam Caplan is reporting the news:
#Panthers are expected to sign veteran CB Charles Tillman, per league source.
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) April 9, 2015
It’s a sad day to lose such a great player on the field and a great man off the field. Tillman has become a Chicago Bears legend and will leave a big void in the Chicago Bears locker room.
Tillman suffered back to back season ending triceps injuries the last two seasons. I’m sure you remember this photo, that perfectly captures how I feel today:
Damn. Charles Tillman weeping on the sideline after triceps injury. Terrible news for great guy pic.twitter.com/LehfNATonK
— Will Brinson (@WillBrinson) September 15, 2014
Tillman will be reunited with Ron Rivera, his defensive coordinator from 2004 – 2006. Tillman signed a 1-year deal with the Panthers, certainly at or near the veteran minimum. I’m sure it will have Bears fans wondering why the Bears didn’t try to bring Tillman back, who recently stated he wanted to be back with the Beloved:
"Oh yeah, most definitely. I would love to be back in Chicago. But that’s not up to me. That’s up to the new GM. His name is Ryan Pace. So that’s up to him and coach [John] Fox."
It’s not entirely a shock that Tillman and the Bears have parted company. Ryan Pace and John Fox have been eager to put their stamp on the Chicago Bears and move forward with their version of the Bears. Fox hired Vic Fangio, who will install a 3-4 defense. But most of all, the Bears couldn’t rely on Tillman, who couldn’t stay healthy.
With Tillman apparently gone, Roberto Garza recently released and Lance Briggs not expected to be re-signed, it leaves Robbie Gould as the last member of the 2006 Super Bowl team.
I’m sure I speak for all Bears fans when I say that I wish Peanut nothing but the best of luck both on and off the field.