Let’s try to sum up everything that happened on Thursday, the busiest day yet for the Chicago Bears in the Free Agent Frenzy.
12:10 AM – Rumors of a Greg Olsen trade started leaking.
9:40 AM – Bears sign punted Adam Podlesh.
11:00 AM – Former Bears wide receiver Rashied Davis signs with the Detroit Lions.
12:45 PM – Bears sign tight end Matt Spaeth, fueling speculation that Olsen will be traded.
2:00 PM – Bears release tight end Brandon Manumaleuna.
3:00 PM – Bills sign utility man Brad Smith, whom the Bears had been rumored to have interest in as a wide receiver.
3:45 PM – Cowboys make release of Roy Williams official. Bears interested in reuniting Williams with Mike Martz?
5:00 PM – Word comes out that Matt Forte will reportedly hold out, seeking a contract extension.
5:30 PM – Bears trade Greg Olsen to Panthers for a third round draft pick in 2012.
Other moves around the league that could have an impact on the Bears:
- Willie Colon re-signed with the Steeler. Damn, I wanted this one to work out!
- Jermon Bushrod re-signed with the Saints. Another O-lineman that the Bears had expressed interest in.
- The Atlanta Falcons re-signed OT Tyson Clabo. Yes, it’s another offensive lineman that the Bears could have targeted.
- Chad Ochocinco was traded to the New England Patriots. It’s another wide receiver off the market.
- CB Jonathan Joseph signed with the Houston Texans. a) he would have been really nice for the Bears and b) the Lions wanted him, so at least we got that going for us.
Did I miss anything? The frenzy will only pick up steam on Friday when free agents can actually sign contracts. Look for Olin Kreutz to decide where he lands and see if the Bears can do anything more meaningful than signing a punter and a blocking tight end.