Urlacher and Bears Call It Quits

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It seems as though Brian Urlacher and the Chicago Bears were unable to agree on a new contract.  As a result, Urlacher will test the free agent market for the first time in his career.  If Urlacher had his way he would still be in a Chicago uniform.  "I wanted to be in Chicago. I wanted to finish here. Now that's not possible," said Urlacher via NFL.com.  


According to Urlacher's camp, he was originally seeking a two-year deal that would have amounted to $11.5 million.  When the offer was taken to the Bears it was met with a counter offer of a one-year deal for $2 million.  Urlacher left the situation disgruntled claiming "It wasn't even an offer; it was an ultimatum," according to the Tribune.

Urlacher is one of four players in NFL history with at least 40 sacks and 20 interceptions.  He has eight Pro Bowl appearances and has been named an All-Pro five times.  Urlacher's presence will be missed both on and off the field for Chicago.  He has been the leader of their defense for over a decade, and I'm sure they will miss his football knowledge and leadership traits.  

Although Urlacher has been dealing with some nagging injuries over the last couple of years, he is still a quality middle linebacker.  His knowledge and experience will undoubtedly help him find a new team to play for and after the incident with Chicago, Urlacher may have something to prove.  Whichever team signs Brian Urlacher is going to get an outstanding leader and a great teammate.  Couple those traits with his ability to read offenses and it's hard to believe that Chicago wasn't willing to negotiate further.