Bears Add Jordan Palmer, Veteran Linebacker Larry Grant and Other Roster Moves

December 2, 2012; St. Louis, MO, USA; San Francisco 49ers linebacker Larry Grant (54) attempts to block a punt by St. Louis Rams punter Johnny Hekker (6) during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. St. Louis defeated San Francisco 16-13 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

It was back to business for the Chicago Bears, as they ended their bye week and began preparations in earnest for the Green Bay Packers next Monday night.  The Bears made the expected move of adding backup quarterback Jordan Palmer.  Palmer was one of the final cuts of the preseason, as he had a groundswell of support following a nice preseason finale in which he posted a quarterback rating.

They also added veteran linebacker Larry Grant, who appeared in 66 games spread over 5 seasons with the Niners and Rams, to the mix.  While rookie Khaseem Greene will get the first shot at replacing Lance Briggs, Grant could be in the picture if Greene struggles.  Initially, Grant will focus on special teams and look to replace snaps that Jon Bostic and Greene will miss as they move into starting roles on the defense.

The corresponding roster moves included cutting veteran tight end Steve Maneri, who appeared in four games for the Bears including 0ne start, did not record a catch.  After early struggles, he was quickly moved to the background as the Bears opted to bring lineman Eben Britton in for blocking help, rather than using Maneri.

The Bears also waived undrafted rookie cornerback CJ Wilson but were able to sign him back to the practice squad.  The Bears also signed receiver Terrence Toliver to the practice squad and terminated the practice squad contract of Ricordo Lockette.