The Chicago Bears opened their mandatory minicamp with contract controversy and a sealed deal.
The controversy concerns eight-year veteran linebacker Brian Urlacher. Urlacher has played in every regular season game in seven out of his eight seasons. The exception being 2004 when he appeared in nine games. He has played in a total of 121 games, making 970 tackles (744 solo tackles) and 37.5 sacks. He has also snatched 15 interceptions.
Urlacher is unhappy with his nine-year contract that goes through 2011. This is the linebacker’s first visit to camp this year. Thus far, he’s missed voluntary meetings, conditioning workouts and other activities.
But, Urlacher noted, “When it says mandatory, you’re supposed to be at those things, so that’s why I’m here. I’m supposed to be here. I’m not trying to send any message.” He went on to say, “It’s a mandatory team function and we’re supposed to be here.”
On another front, the Bears signed tight end Kellen Davis to a four-year deal. Davis, who played for Michigan State, was a fifth-round pick.
In his senior year at Michigan State, Davis, who is 6-6 and 262 pounds, caught 28 passes, gaining 478 yards and scoring five touchdowns.
He’s the first Chicago draft pick to sign a deal this season. Details regarding the Davis deal were not available at this time.
