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			<title>Bears Have Doubts That RB Matt Forte’s Knees Will Hold Up</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190959</link>
			<pubDate>Sat, 26 May 2012 22:02:58 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[A source for the Chicago Tribune is saying that with more than 1,200 touches under his belt in the NFL, the Chicago Bears wonder how long running back Matt Forte’s knees will hold up. Forte has history with both knees. He tore the posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in November 2006 at Tulane and that injury, combined with 833 carries in college primarily on artificial surfaces, caused a handful of teams to note worries over the length of his NFL career. He suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament in the same knee in 2009, his second year, and had postseason arthroscopic surgery. In the midst of his best season last year, Forte missed the Bears' final four games after suffering an MCL sprain in his right knee. 

Source: David Haugh, The Chicago Tribune (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-0527-haugh-matt-forte-chicago--20120527,0,4014548.column)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[A source for the Chicago Tribune is saying that with more than 1,200 touches under his belt in the NFL, the Chicago Bears wonder how long running back Matt Forte’s knees will hold up. Forte has history with both knees. He tore the posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in November 2006 at Tulane and that injury, combined with 833 carries in college primarily on artificial surfaces, caused a handful of teams to note worries over the length of his NFL career. He suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament in the same knee in 2009, his second year, and had postseason arthroscopic surgery. In the midst of his best season last year, Forte missed the Bears' final four games after suffering an MCL sprain in his right knee. <br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-0527-haugh-matt-forte-chicago--20120527,0,4014548.column" target="_blank">David Haugh, The Chicago Tribune</a>]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="http://gridironfans.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=109">Latest NFL Headlines</category>
			<dc:creator>Saintsfan1972</dc:creator>
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			<title>Bears LB J.T. Thomas Expected To Have Drug Charge Dropped</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190984</link>
			<pubDate>Sun, 27 May 2012 19:06:04 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[Chicago Bears linebacker J.T. Thomas likely will be cleared of a misdemeanor drug possession charge before the regular season begins, provided he completes the terms of a deferred sentence. Thomas was arrested Feb. 13 and charged with possession of less than 15 grams of marijuana after being pulled over for driving the wrong way on a one-way street in Morgantown, West Virginia. He paid a $165.80 fine and has to complete Morgantown Area Youth Services Project classes — typically an eight-hour obligation. A motion to dismiss the charge can be filed Aug. 29 on Thomas' behalf if he has completed the classes. He was a sixth-round draft pick in 2011 and spent his entire rookie season on injured reserve with a back injury.

Source: Vaughn McClure, Chicago Tribune (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-0525-bears-brite-chicago--20120525,0,5826724.story)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Chicago Bears linebacker J.T. Thomas likely will be cleared of a misdemeanor drug possession charge before the regular season begins, provided he completes the terms of a deferred sentence. Thomas was arrested Feb. 13 and charged with possession of less than 15 grams of marijuana after being pulled over for driving the wrong way on a one-way street in Morgantown, West Virginia. He paid a $165.80 fine and has to complete Morgantown Area Youth Services Project classes — typically an eight-hour obligation. A motion to dismiss the charge can be filed Aug. 29 on Thomas' behalf if he has completed the classes. He was a sixth-round draft pick in 2011 and spent his entire rookie season on injured reserve with a back injury.<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-0525-bears-brite-chicago--20120525,0,5826724.story" target="_blank">Vaughn McClure, Chicago Tribune</a>]]></content:encoded>
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			<dc:creator>Saintsfan1972</dc:creator>
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			<title><![CDATA[Agent Says Its "Absurd" To Question Bears RB Matt Forte's Durability]]></title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190973</link>
			<pubDate>Sun, 27 May 2012 14:59:47 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[Agent Adisa Bakari took an exception to a report that the Bears are concerned about how Matt Forte's knees will hold up, as they try to sign the Pro Bowl running back to a long-term deal. "Matt Forte is among the most, if not the most, durable, all-purpose running back in the NFL,"Bakari said. "The 2011 season was the first season of his career that he missed any games. Had the Bears been play-off contenders, he could have returned for the balance of the season. To question his durability at this stage in his career is absurd."

Source: Chicago Sun-Times (http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2012/05/agent_says_its_absurd_to_quest.html)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Agent Adisa Bakari took an exception to a report that the Bears are concerned about how Matt Forte's knees will hold up, as they try to sign the Pro Bowl running back to a long-term deal. &quot;Matt Forte is among the most, if not the most, durable, all-purpose running back in the NFL,&quot;Bakari said. &quot;The 2011 season was the first season of his career that he missed any games. Had the Bears been play-off contenders, he could have returned for the balance of the season. To question his durability at this stage in his career is absurd.&quot;<br />
<br />
<b>Source: </b><a href="http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2012/05/agent_says_its_absurd_to_quest.html" target="_blank">Chicago Sun-Times</a>]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="http://gridironfans.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=109">Latest NFL Headlines</category>
			<dc:creator>SteveRobWhatever</dc:creator>
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			<title>Bears LB Brian Urlacher May Test Free Agency In 2013</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190924</link>
			<pubDate>Sat, 26 May 2012 00:45:53 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher said Friday he is considering testing the free-agent market after this season. "I think (team President) Ted Phillips said when they had the owners meeting they're going to wait until the season is over. See what happens, how I play (before addressing the contract situation)," Urlacher said Friday. "It's kind of exciting. I've never been a free agent. So if I can get to free agency we'll see what happens. "I no doubt want to finish my career here. There's no doubt about that. But you bring in free agency and all that you just never know what's going to happen." Urlacher, who turned 34 on Friday, will become a free agent after this season. He is in the last year of a five-year extension he signed in 2008 that will pay him $7.5 million in base salary this year.


Source: The Chicago Tribune (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-urlacher-says-he-may-test-free-agency-after-season-20120525,0,2971029.story)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher said Friday he is considering testing the free-agent market after this season. &quot;I think (team President) Ted Phillips said when they had the owners meeting they're going to wait until the season is over. See what happens, how I play (before addressing the contract situation),&quot; Urlacher said Friday. &quot;It's kind of exciting. I've never been a free agent. So if I can get to free agency we'll see what happens. &quot;I no doubt want to finish my career here. There's no doubt about that. But you bring in free agency and all that you just never know what's going to happen.&quot; Urlacher, who turned 34 on Friday, will become a free agent after this season. He is in the last year of a five-year extension he signed in 2008 that will pay him $7.5 million in base salary this year.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-urlacher-says-he-may-test-free-agency-after-season-20120525,0,2971029.story" target="_blank">The Chicago Tribune</a>]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="http://gridironfans.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=109">Latest NFL Headlines</category>
			<dc:creator>Saintsfan1972</dc:creator>
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			<title>LB Brian Urlacher Thinks This Is His Best Bears Team Ever</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190916</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 25 May 2012 21:41:20 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[Brian Urlacher turned 34 on Friday, he's been a member of the Chicago Bears for more than a third of his life, the man has seen things. This qualifies Urlacher to discuss matters of perspective when it comes to pro football teams that call Soldier Field home. Urlacher isn't known for Rex Ryan-style proclamations, but he was unable to contain his excitement when asked if this is the best Bears team he's been a part of. "Yes, it's not even close," Urlacher, an eight-time Pro Bowler, said Friday on WMVP-AM. "The talent we have on this team is phenomenal -- Brandon Marshall, Jay Cutler is healthy, our O-line is huge. I haven't talked about our defense yet but our offensive line, they're big. They're big bodies in there. "On defense, we're pretty much the same as we have been," he went on. "We have a couple of young guys in there. It's exciting to watch. You know, I haven't been able to participate but it's been fun to watch so far."

Source: NFL.com (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d829592c7/article/brian-urlacher-thinks-this-is-his-best-bears-team-yet)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Brian Urlacher turned 34 on Friday, he's been a member of the Chicago Bears for more than a third of his life, the man has seen things. This qualifies Urlacher to discuss matters of perspective when it comes to pro football teams that call Soldier Field home. Urlacher isn't known for Rex Ryan-style proclamations, but he was unable to contain his excitement when asked if this is the best Bears team he's been a part of. &quot;Yes, it's not even close,&quot; Urlacher, an eight-time Pro Bowler, said Friday on WMVP-AM. &quot;The talent we have on this team is phenomenal -- Brandon Marshall, Jay Cutler is healthy, our O-line is huge. I haven't talked about our defense yet but our offensive line, they're big. They're big bodies in there. &quot;On defense, we're pretty much the same as we have been,&quot; he went on. &quot;We have a couple of young guys in there. It's exciting to watch. You know, I haven't been able to participate but it's been fun to watch so far.&quot;<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d829592c7/article/brian-urlacher-thinks-this-is-his-best-bears-team-yet" target="_blank">NFL.com</a>]]></content:encoded>
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			<dc:creator>Sweets</dc:creator>
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			<title><![CDATA[Bears Could Re-Sign QB Jay Cutler Before Tackling RB Matt Forte's Contract]]></title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190811</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 May 2012 16:13:09 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[David Haugh of the Chicago Tribune suggests that the Bears could sign quarterback Jay Cutler to a new long-term deal before they give a new contract to unsigned franchise running back Matt Forte. This is just another sign that the Bears have no intention of paying Forte's current asking price but you have to wonder about their priorities, Cutler has two years left on his contract while Forte doesn't have a contract at all and rookie GM Phil Emery is playing hardball. This is a league that is all about the quarterback right now and most of the Bears' offseason moves, primarily trading for Cutler's old teammate Brandon Marshall and drafting widout Alston Jeffrey, were done to please the quarterback.  With two years remaining on a five-year, $50 million extension he signed in 2009, the Bears must realize the benefits for stability and the salary cap in locking up a 29-year-old quarterback whose presence affected every offseason decision, if the Bears budget at least $20 million in guarantees to one offensive back, investing in Cutler is smarter money than Forte too. Interestingly, when Cutler was asked how much he misses Forte at OTAs he answered by praising his possible replacement.  "(Michael) Bush is doing a good job out here for us," Cutler said. "We all know what Matt can do for this offense. We all expect to have Matt at some point. When he gets here, he's going to step right in."

Source: The Redzone (http://theredzone.org/BlogDescription.aspx?EntryID=26500)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[David Haugh of the Chicago Tribune suggests that the Bears could sign quarterback Jay Cutler to a new long-term deal before they give a new contract to unsigned franchise running back Matt Forte. This is just another sign that the Bears have no intention of paying Forte's current asking price but you have to wonder about their priorities, Cutler has two years left on his contract while Forte doesn't have a contract at all and rookie GM Phil Emery is playing hardball. This is a league that is all about the quarterback right now and most of the Bears' offseason moves, primarily trading for Cutler's old teammate Brandon Marshall and drafting widout Alston Jeffrey, were done to please the quarterback.  With two years remaining on a five-year, $50 million extension he signed in 2009, the Bears must realize the benefits for stability and the salary cap in locking up a 29-year-old quarterback whose presence affected every offseason decision, if the Bears budget at least $20 million in guarantees to one offensive back, investing in Cutler is smarter money than Forte too. Interestingly, when Cutler was asked how much he misses Forte at OTAs he answered by praising his possible replacement.  &quot;(Michael) Bush is doing a good job out here for us,&quot; Cutler said. &quot;We all know what Matt can do for this offense. We all expect to have Matt at some point. When he gets here, he's going to step right in.&quot;<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://theredzone.org/BlogDescription.aspx?EntryID=26500" target="_blank">The Redzone</a>]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="http://gridironfans.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=109">Latest NFL Headlines</category>
			<dc:creator>Sweets</dc:creator>
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			<title>Bears WR Johnny Knox Could Miss 2012 Season</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190845</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 25 May 2012 01:25:14 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>Wide receiver Johnny Knox was in good spirits Wednesday at the Bears’ offseason practice at Halas Hall but still a long way from participating in practice and an even longer way from playing in a game. Still rehabilitating from surgery to stabilize a vertebra in his back after suffering a horrific injury Dec. 18 against the Seattle Seahawks, a clearly underweight Knox acknowledged the possibility that he might miss part or all of the 2012 season. ‘‘It could happen, but I’m staying optimistic,’’ said Knox, who was second in the NFL with 19.6 yards per catch last season, when he had 37 receptions for a team-leading 727 yards and two touchdowns. ‘‘My main focus is in the weight room. I’m not in a rush. This is my spine, the core of my body I’m dealing with. It’s not my knee, ankle or shoulder. I’m taking my time.’’ Knox said he lost 30 pounds after the surgery but has regained 10 in rehab, which would put him at about 165 pounds on his 6-foot frame. He said he’s jogging but not running routes, and he’s doing light weightlifting to build up muscle. But there’s no timetable for his return. ‘‘I’m doing great; I’m feeling a lot better from Day 1,’’ he said. ‘‘Getting stronger. Working on some things to get stronger in my lower body and my back. Most importantly, mentally, too.’’

Source: Chicago Sun-Times (http://www.suntimes.com/sports/football/bears/12731275-606/bears-johnny-knox-could-miss-2012-season.html)</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Wide receiver Johnny Knox was in good spirits Wednesday at the Bears’ offseason practice at Halas Hall but still a long way from participating in practice and an even longer way from playing in a game. Still rehabilitating from surgery to stabilize a vertebra in his back after suffering a horrific injury Dec. 18 against the Seattle Seahawks, a clearly underweight Knox acknowledged the possibility that he might miss part or all of the 2012 season. ‘‘It could happen, but I’m staying optimistic,’’ said Knox, who was second in the NFL with 19.6 yards per catch last season, when he had 37 receptions for a team-leading 727 yards and two touchdowns. ‘‘My main focus is in the weight room. I’m not in a rush. This is my spine, the core of my body I’m dealing with. It’s not my knee, ankle or shoulder. I’m taking my time.’’ Knox said he lost 30 pounds after the surgery but has regained 10 in rehab, which would put him at about 165 pounds on his 6-foot frame. He said he’s jogging but not running routes, and he’s doing light weightlifting to build up muscle. But there’s no timetable for his return. ‘‘I’m doing great; I’m feeling a lot better from Day 1,’’ he said. ‘‘Getting stronger. Working on some things to get stronger in my lower body and my back. Most importantly, mentally, too.’’<br />
<br />
<b>Source: </b><a href="http://www.suntimes.com/sports/football/bears/12731275-606/bears-johnny-knox-could-miss-2012-season.html" target="_blank">Chicago Sun-Times</a>]]></content:encoded>
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			<dc:creator>SteveRobWhatever</dc:creator>
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			<title>Bears Sign DT Nate Collins</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190770</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 May 2012 00:11:23 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[The Bears announced Wednesday that they have signed DT Nate Collins to a one-year contract. Collins entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2010 and played in 13 games for the Jaguars over the past two seasons after beginning his career with the Giants. He recorded 10 tackles and was credited with one half of a sack and a pass defensed in 12 games last season. The addition of Collins brings the Bears' roster to the 90-player maximum.

Source: ProFootball Weekly (http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/05/23/bears-sign-dt-collins)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[The Bears announced Wednesday that they have signed DT Nate Collins to a one-year contract. Collins entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2010 and played in 13 games for the Jaguars over the past two seasons after beginning his career with the Giants. He recorded 10 tackles and was credited with one half of a sack and a pass defensed in 12 games last season. The addition of Collins brings the Bears' roster to the 90-player maximum.<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.profootballweekly.com/2012/05/23/bears-sign-dt-collins" target="_blank">ProFootball Weekly</a>]]></content:encoded>
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			<dc:creator>Sweets</dc:creator>
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			<title>Bears LB Brian Urlacher Will Be Limited In Offseason Workouts Due To Injury</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190708</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 23 May 2012 13:15:34 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[It’s been more than 4 ½ months since Brian Urlacher went down in an awkward position in clear pain with a knee injury. The Chicago Bears had immediate fear the middle linebacker had suffered a serious knee injury in what was a meaningless Jan. 1 season finale at the Metrodome. It turned out all he suffered was a sprain of the medial collateral and posterior cruciate ligaments, the Bears figured it would require Urlacher 10 weeks to rehabilitate but from the sounds of things the team is going to let him take it easy this offseason. According to Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune, Urlacher is “unlikely to participate much” in nine remaining OTA dates and “could be limited” for minicamp, which will be held June 12-14, Coach Lovie Smith has maintained for months that Urlacher is 100 percent. “It's getting better,” Urlacher said. “I'm on schedule, so I feel good. At this stage, I know the defense pretty well. I'm not worried about being out there and not knowing what I'm doing.” When will Urlacher be back for sure? “Definitely training camp, I think,” he said. “The OTAs are not as important.”

Source: National Football Post (http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Brian-Urlacher-will-be-limited-in-offseason-workouts.html)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[It’s been more than 4 ½ months since Brian Urlacher went down in an awkward position in clear pain with a knee injury. The Chicago Bears had immediate fear the middle linebacker had suffered a serious knee injury in what was a meaningless Jan. 1 season finale at the Metrodome. It turned out all he suffered was a sprain of the medial collateral and posterior cruciate ligaments, the Bears figured it would require Urlacher 10 weeks to rehabilitate but from the sounds of things the team is going to let him take it easy this offseason. According to Vaughn McClure of the Chicago Tribune, Urlacher is “unlikely to participate much” in nine remaining OTA dates and “could be limited” for minicamp, which will be held June 12-14, Coach Lovie Smith has maintained for months that Urlacher is 100 percent. “It's getting better,” Urlacher said. “I'm on schedule, so I feel good. At this stage, I know the defense pretty well. I'm not worried about being out there and not knowing what I'm doing.” When will Urlacher be back for sure? “Definitely training camp, I think,” he said. “The OTAs are not as important.”<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Brian-Urlacher-will-be-limited-in-offseason-workouts.html" target="_blank">National Football Post</a>]]></content:encoded>
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			<dc:creator>Sweets</dc:creator>
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			<title>WR Brandon Marshall Says Bears Could Be Super Bowl Contenders</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190455</link>
			<pubDate>Sun, 20 May 2012 14:31:58 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[After joining the Chicago Bears this offseason, wide receiver Brandon Marshall is confident his new team can leapfrog the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions in the NFC North pecking order. “Honestly, I think we can not only make it to the Super Bowl, but I think we'll have a chance to win it,” Marshall said on ESPN's "First Take" on Friday via Sporting News. The Bears missed the playoffs last season after losing five of their final six games. Chicago's offense ranked just 24th in 2011, but Marshall said the Bears didn't have to worry about following the high-scoring style of the Packers and Lions. "I look at it the other way," Marshall said. "You have to pay respect to the Packers because they won the division, but those teams don't have a defense like we do." Despite running back Matt Forte's lingering dissatisfaction with his contract, Marshall said the Bears had more than enough offensive firepower to compete within the division. “On the offensive side of the ball, we know what we have in Matt Forte and Jay Cutler, and adding me to the passing game—and opening up other alleys for Devin Hester and Earl (Bennett)—it's just going to make our offense and our team that much better."

Source: NFL.com (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d829383f9/article/brandon-marshall-says-bears-could-be-super-bowl-contenders)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[After joining the Chicago Bears this offseason, wide receiver Brandon Marshall is confident his new team can leapfrog the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions in the NFC North pecking order. “Honestly, I think we can not only make it to the Super Bowl, but I think we'll have a chance to win it,” Marshall said on ESPN's &quot;First Take&quot; on Friday via Sporting News. The Bears missed the playoffs last season after losing five of their final six games. Chicago's offense ranked just 24th in 2011, but Marshall said the Bears didn't have to worry about following the high-scoring style of the Packers and Lions. &quot;I look at it the other way,&quot; Marshall said. &quot;You have to pay respect to the Packers because they won the division, but those teams don't have a defense like we do.&quot; Despite running back Matt Forte's lingering dissatisfaction with his contract, Marshall said the Bears had more than enough offensive firepower to compete within the division. “On the offensive side of the ball, we know what we have in Matt Forte and Jay Cutler, and adding me to the passing game—and opening up other alleys for Devin Hester and Earl (Bennett)—it's just going to make our offense and our team that much better.&quot;<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d829383f9/article/brandon-marshall-says-bears-could-be-super-bowl-contenders" target="_blank">NFL.com</a>]]></content:encoded>
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			<dc:creator>Sweets</dc:creator>
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			<title>Bears LB Lance Briggs Would Welcome DT Tommie Harris Signing</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190521</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 21 May 2012 14:15:56 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[The Chicago Bears could use defensive tackle depth. The man that helped them win the 2006 NFC Championship is out there, looking for a job, a potential reunion between Tommie Harris and the Bears makes a lot of sense. The Chicago Tribune reported previously that the Bears have "talked about" bringing Harris back into the fold. That would be welcome news to former teammate Lance Briggs. "Absolutely he could help. Tommie will make any defensive line better, any team better," Briggs told Vaughn McClure. "Having him, you know that you're getting an elite defensive tackle."

Source: NFL.com (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8293b772/article/lance-briggs-would-welcome-tommie-harris-signing)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[The Chicago Bears could use defensive tackle depth. The man that helped them win the 2006 NFC Championship is out there, looking for a job, a potential reunion between Tommie Harris and the Bears makes a lot of sense. The Chicago Tribune reported previously that the Bears have &quot;talked about&quot; bringing Harris back into the fold. That would be welcome news to former teammate Lance Briggs. &quot;Absolutely he could help. Tommie will make any defensive line better, any team better,&quot; Briggs told Vaughn McClure. &quot;Having him, you know that you're getting an elite defensive tackle.&quot;<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8293b772/article/lance-briggs-would-welcome-tommie-harris-signing" target="_blank">NFL.com</a>]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="http://gridironfans.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=109">Latest NFL Headlines</category>
			<dc:creator>Sweets</dc:creator>
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			<title>Bears RB Matt Forte Looking For A Deal Close To LeSean McCoy’s?</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190503</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 21 May 2012 01:36:29 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>Dan Pompei of the Chicago Tribune writes that the Bears RB Matt Forte is believed to be seeking a base salary close to that of LeSean McCoy‘s recent contract, which would pay him $8.5 million per year. Chicago supposedly offered him a contract that would’ve paid him salary of $6 million per season, but that’s obviously not the kind of money that Forte’s looking for at this point. Pompei adds that it may might more sense for the Bears to franchise him this year and next, despite the 20% increase that a second franchise tender would require, rather than lock him up long-term. The only drawback with this idea, is the potential repercussions that it could have on the rest of Chicago’s locker room.

Source: NFL Trade Rumors (http://nfltraderumors.co/chicago-bears-matt-forte-odds/)</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Dan Pompei of the Chicago Tribune writes that the Bears RB Matt Forte is believed to be seeking a base salary close to that of LeSean McCoy‘s recent contract, which would pay him $8.5 million per year. Chicago supposedly offered him a contract that would’ve paid him salary of $6 million per season, but that’s obviously not the kind of money that Forte’s looking for at this point. Pompei adds that it may might more sense for the Bears to franchise him this year and next, despite the 20% increase that a second franchise tender would require, rather than lock him up long-term. The only drawback with this idea, is the potential repercussions that it could have on the rest of Chicago’s locker room.<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://nfltraderumors.co/chicago-bears-matt-forte-odds/" target="_blank">NFL Trade Rumors</a>]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="http://gridironfans.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=109">Latest NFL Headlines</category>
			<dc:creator>SteveRobWhatever</dc:creator>
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			<title>Bears And RB Matt Forte Still Struggling To Reach A Deal</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190350</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 18 May 2012 13:51:56 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[Running back Matt Forte's contract is still an issue the Bears need to resolve.  Forte has not participated in the Bears' voluntary offseason workout program and can't be fined for missing their mandatory minicamp because he is not under contract. Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports Bears President Ted Phillips said in March the club had made a "strong offer" to Forte, the most General Manager Phil Emery has said is the team continues to work on a deal. Former Packers contract negotiator Andrew Brandt probably summed up the team's stance perfectly. "The hardest position to sink long-term money into is running back because it has the shortest shelf life," Brandt told the Philadelphia Daily News. "There's a graveyard of bad contracts that were given to running backs over a certain age going back to Eddie George, Corey Dillon, Jamal Anderson and Shaun Alexander." The Bears want to make sure they are paying Forte for future performance, not rewarding him for previous accomplishments, he has been a durable performer before the knee sprain that cost him the final four games of 2011, averaging 19.4 touches per game over the last two seasons.

Source: The Redzone (http://theredzone.org/BlogDescription.aspx?EntryID=26353)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Running back Matt Forte's contract is still an issue the Bears need to resolve.  Forte has not participated in the Bears' voluntary offseason workout program and can't be fined for missing their mandatory minicamp because he is not under contract. Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports Bears President Ted Phillips said in March the club had made a &quot;strong offer&quot; to Forte, the most General Manager Phil Emery has said is the team continues to work on a deal. Former Packers contract negotiator Andrew Brandt probably summed up the team's stance perfectly. &quot;The hardest position to sink long-term money into is running back because it has the shortest shelf life,&quot; Brandt told the Philadelphia Daily News. &quot;There's a graveyard of bad contracts that were given to running backs over a certain age going back to Eddie George, Corey Dillon, Jamal Anderson and Shaun Alexander.&quot; The Bears want to make sure they are paying Forte for future performance, not rewarding him for previous accomplishments, he has been a durable performer before the knee sprain that cost him the final four games of 2011, averaging 19.4 touches per game over the last two seasons.<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://theredzone.org/BlogDescription.aspx?EntryID=26353" target="_blank">The Redzone</a>]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="http://gridironfans.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=109">Latest NFL Headlines</category>
			<dc:creator>Sweets</dc:creator>
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			<title><![CDATA[Bears WR Brandon Marshall Won't Face Charges In New York Nightclub Incident]]></title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190333</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 18 May 2012 00:27:17 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[Police in New York City will not bring charges against Brandon Marshall for the melee at New York nightclub in March, attorney Harvey Steinberg told NFL Network's Michelle Beisner. Marshall had said he was at the club at the time of the incident but claimed that his wife who was hit with a bottle and taken to a hospital was the victim. The first reports of the alleged incident indicated that Marshall had punched a woman in the face outside of the club. "The situation in New York, it's unfortunate," Marshall told "The Waddle & Silvy Show" on WMVP-AM in Chicago last week. "You never want to see anyone get hurt, but just the allegation of me balling my fist up and hitting a woman is just a lie. When the judicial system takes its course I'm very confident I will be cleared of any wrongdoing. My wife was the victim in this situation."

Source: NFL.com (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8292be96/article/no-charges-for-brandon-marshall-in-new-york-nightclub-incident)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Police in New York City will not bring charges against Brandon Marshall for the melee at New York nightclub in March, attorney Harvey Steinberg told NFL Network's Michelle Beisner. Marshall had said he was at the club at the time of the incident but claimed that his wife who was hit with a bottle and taken to a hospital was the victim. The first reports of the alleged incident indicated that Marshall had punched a woman in the face outside of the club. &quot;The situation in New York, it's unfortunate,&quot; Marshall told &quot;The Waddle &amp; Silvy Show&quot; on WMVP-AM in Chicago last week. &quot;You never want to see anyone get hurt, but just the allegation of me balling my fist up and hitting a woman is just a lie. When the judicial system takes its course I'm very confident I will be cleared of any wrongdoing. My wife was the victim in this situation.&quot;<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8292be96/article/no-charges-for-brandon-marshall-in-new-york-nightclub-incident" target="_blank">NFL.com</a>]]></content:encoded>
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			<dc:creator>SteveRobWhatever</dc:creator>
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			<title>Bears To Move Chris Williams Back To Left Side OT</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190194</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 18:46:53 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>Sources familiar with the situation say the Chicago Bears will move veteran Chris Williams back to offensive tackle according to Michael C. Wright of ESPNChicago.com. A former first-round pick -- 14th overall in 2008 -- Williams was drafted to play left tackle. As a rookie, Williams played in nine games, seeing limited action at left tackle. In 2009, Williams started 11 games at right tackle and five on the left side.

Source: The Redzone (http://theredzone.org/BlogDescription.aspx?EntryID=26306)</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Sources familiar with the situation say the Chicago Bears will move veteran Chris Williams back to offensive tackle according to Michael C. Wright of ESPNChicago.com. A former first-round pick -- 14th overall in 2008 -- Williams was drafted to play left tackle. As a rookie, Williams played in nine games, seeing limited action at left tackle. In 2009, Williams started 11 games at right tackle and five on the left side.<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://theredzone.org/BlogDescription.aspx?EntryID=26306" target="_blank">The Redzone</a>]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="http://gridironfans.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=109">Latest NFL Headlines</category>
			<dc:creator>Sweets</dc:creator>
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			<title><![CDATA[Bears Assistant Mike Tice Says Offensive Tackle Wasn't A "Dire Need" In The Draft]]></title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=189851</link>
			<pubDate>Sat, 12 May 2012 16:39:55 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[Bears coach Lovie Smith and general manager Phil Emery have defended the team's offensive line throughout the offseason. During the NFL Draft, the Bears had an opportunity to land highly-rated o-linemen, yet they passed and addressed other positions. Bears offensive coordinator Mike Tice said they would have address offensive tackle, if they collectively thought it were a problem. "I think if Phil and Lovie -- with the help of the scouts and the staff -- if we felt tackle were a dire need for us, I'm sure they would have answered the bell on draft day," Tice said. "With the change in scheme, and the change in personality - if you will - and an offseason, and getting some guys healthy, I think we'll make a big jump in the offensive line. I think it takes time for young guys to play good in all areas, and I think we have a couple of young guys who have played good football in half the scheme, if you will, and they need to step it up in the other half of the scheme," Tice said. "We have a number of guys like that."

Source: Chicago Sun-Times (http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2012/05/mike_tice_says_offensive_tackl.html)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Bears coach Lovie Smith and general manager Phil Emery have defended the team's offensive line throughout the offseason. During the NFL Draft, the Bears had an opportunity to land highly-rated o-linemen, yet they passed and addressed other positions. Bears offensive coordinator Mike Tice said they would have address offensive tackle, if they collectively thought it were a problem. &quot;I think if Phil and Lovie -- with the help of the scouts and the staff -- if we felt tackle were a dire need for us, I'm sure they would have answered the bell on draft day,&quot; Tice said. &quot;With the change in scheme, and the change in personality - if you will - and an offseason, and getting some guys healthy, I think we'll make a big jump in the offensive line. I think it takes time for young guys to play good in all areas, and I think we have a couple of young guys who have played good football in half the scheme, if you will, and they need to step it up in the other half of the scheme,&quot; Tice said. &quot;We have a number of guys like that.&quot;<br />
<br />
<b>Source: </b><a href="http://blogs.suntimes.com/bears/2012/05/mike_tice_says_offensive_tackl.html" target="_blank">Chicago Sun-Times</a>]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="http://gridironfans.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=109">Latest NFL Headlines</category>
			<dc:creator>SteveRobWhatever</dc:creator>
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			<title><![CDATA[Bears QB Jay Cutler Admits He's Concerned With Offensive Line]]></title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190069</link>
			<pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 14:03:39 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[Jay Cutler is a lot like Bears fans out there. He's worried about the team's offensive line. “You know, the offensive line is definitely going to be a concern and seeing where those guys are going to fit in and seeing what five we go with,” Cutler said via the Chicago Sun-Times when asked about the upcoming season. “If Gabe [Carimi] comes back, if J’Marcus [Webb] pans out. Where are we going to put Chris Williams? There are some question marks there. Until we really get that resolved and get our front five settled in, we’ve got some work to do on offense." Cutler's honesty won't win him any points in Chicago, but we love it. He's essentially questioning the team's strategy to not draft offensive linemen. We questioned that strategy as well after the draft, and heard from a few angry Bears fans that said we were making too much out of nothing. The fans say that getting rid of offensive coordinator Mike Martz solves everything. Cutler disagrees. "It helps some, but it’s not a cure all by any means," Cutler said. "They’re still going to be asked to protect. There are going to be times it’s third-and-eight, third-and-10 and we’re going to have to take seven-step drops and we’re going to have the longer route and they’re going to have to protect."

Source: NFL.com (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8291a429/article/jay-cutler-admits-hes-concerned-with-offensive-line)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Jay Cutler is a lot like Bears fans out there. He's worried about the team's offensive line. “You know, the offensive line is definitely going to be a concern and seeing where those guys are going to fit in and seeing what five we go with,” Cutler said via the Chicago Sun-Times when asked about the upcoming season. “If Gabe [Carimi] comes back, if J’Marcus [Webb] pans out. Where are we going to put Chris Williams? There are some question marks there. Until we really get that resolved and get our front five settled in, we’ve got some work to do on offense.&quot; Cutler's honesty won't win him any points in Chicago, but we love it. He's essentially questioning the team's strategy to not draft offensive linemen. We questioned that strategy as well after the draft, and heard from a few angry Bears fans that said we were making too much out of nothing. The fans say that getting rid of offensive coordinator Mike Martz solves everything. Cutler disagrees. &quot;It helps some, but it’s not a cure all by any means,&quot; Cutler said. &quot;They’re still going to be asked to protect. There are going to be times it’s third-and-eight, third-and-10 and we’re going to have to take seven-step drops and we’re going to have the longer route and they’re going to have to protect.&quot;<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8291a429/article/jay-cutler-admits-hes-concerned-with-offensive-line" target="_blank">NFL.com</a>]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="http://gridironfans.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=109">Latest NFL Headlines</category>
			<dc:creator>Sweets</dc:creator>
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			<title>Vikings Sign DE Nick Reed, T Kevin Murphy</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190147</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 01:09:27 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[The Minnesota Vikings have signed defensive end Nick Reed and tackle Kevin Murphy. Reed, drafted by Seattle in the seventh round in 2009, was invited to the Vikings' rookie mini-camp earlier this month. He played 16 games for the Seahawks as a rookie in 2009. He was out of the league in 2010 and spent parts of last season with Chicago and Tampa Bay. Murphy, a 6-foot-7, 303-pound tackle out of Harvard, went undrafted last month. He signed a free agent deal with San Francisco shortly after the draft but was quickly waived by the 49ers. The Vikings also released offensive tackle Jose Valdez.

Source: Dan Wiederer, The Star Tribune (http://www.startribune.com/sports/vikings/blogs/151617935.html)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[The Minnesota Vikings have signed defensive end Nick Reed and tackle Kevin Murphy. Reed, drafted by Seattle in the seventh round in 2009, was invited to the Vikings' rookie mini-camp earlier this month. He played 16 games for the Seahawks as a rookie in 2009. He was out of the league in 2010 and spent parts of last season with Chicago and Tampa Bay. Murphy, a 6-foot-7, 303-pound tackle out of Harvard, went undrafted last month. He signed a free agent deal with San Francisco shortly after the draft but was quickly waived by the 49ers. The Vikings also released offensive tackle Jose Valdez.<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.startribune.com/sports/vikings/blogs/151617935.html" target="_blank">Dan Wiederer, The Star Tribune</a>]]></content:encoded>
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			<dc:creator>Saintsfan1972</dc:creator>
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			<title>Bears Sign Third-Round Pick FS Brandon Hardin</title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190099</link>
			<pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 16:44:18 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[The Chicago Bears signed third-round draft pick, safety Brandon Hardin out of Oregon State to a four-year contract on Tuesday according to ESPNChicago.com. Hardin last of the Bears' 2012 draft class to sign. Hardin, who is being converted from cornerback, missed all of last season due to a shoulder injury but says he feels healthy.

Source: The Redzone (http://theredzone.org/BlogDescription.aspx?EntryID=26281)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[The Chicago Bears signed third-round draft pick, safety Brandon Hardin out of Oregon State to a four-year contract on Tuesday according to ESPNChicago.com. Hardin last of the Bears' 2012 draft class to sign. Hardin, who is being converted from cornerback, missed all of last season due to a shoulder injury but says he feels healthy.<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://theredzone.org/BlogDescription.aspx?EntryID=26281" target="_blank">The Redzone</a>]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="http://gridironfans.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=109">Latest NFL Headlines</category>
			<dc:creator>Sweets</dc:creator>
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			<title><![CDATA[Bears QB Jay Cutler Says Injured Thumb Now 'Fine']]></title>
			<link>http://gridironfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=190047</link>
			<pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 01:24:38 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[Quarterback Jay Cutler says his right thumb is fine and he can't wait to return to lead a significantly upgraded Chicago Bears offense. Cutler said Monday that he has recovered from offseason surgery to repair the fractured thumb. He suffered the injury late last November against the San Diego Chargers while making a tackle on Antoine Cason, who had just picked off a pass by the Bears quarterback. "It's fine," Cutler said during a diabetes awareness event at Perspectives Charter School Calumet Campus. "I really didn't throw a lot in the offseason, rehabbed a little bit and came back and felt good." Cutler is looking forward to two significant reunions when the Bears open training camp this summer at Olivet Nazarene University. He finally has a go-to target again with old friend and former Broncos teammate, Pro Bowl wide receiver Brandon Marshall. "It's going to be fun," Cutler said. "We know what Brandon is, and we'll get Matt (Forte) back at some point. We've got the makings of a good offense, but a lot remains to be seen."

Source: Associated Press (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d82918522/article/jay-cutler-says-thumb-feels-fine-eager-to-return-to-field)]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Quarterback Jay Cutler says his right thumb is fine and he can't wait to return to lead a significantly upgraded Chicago Bears offense. Cutler said Monday that he has recovered from offseason surgery to repair the fractured thumb. He suffered the injury late last November against the San Diego Chargers while making a tackle on Antoine Cason, who had just picked off a pass by the Bears quarterback. &quot;It's fine,&quot; Cutler said during a diabetes awareness event at Perspectives Charter School Calumet Campus. &quot;I really didn't throw a lot in the offseason, rehabbed a little bit and came back and felt good.&quot; Cutler is looking forward to two significant reunions when the Bears open training camp this summer at Olivet Nazarene University. He finally has a go-to target again with old friend and former Broncos teammate, Pro Bowl wide receiver Brandon Marshall. &quot;It's going to be fun,&quot; Cutler said. &quot;We know what Brandon is, and we'll get Matt (Forte) back at some point. We've got the makings of a good offense, but a lot remains to be seen.&quot;<br />
<br />
<b>Source:</b> <a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d82918522/article/jay-cutler-says-thumb-feels-fine-eager-to-return-to-field" target="_blank">Associated Press</a>]]></content:encoded>
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			<dc:creator>Sweets</dc:creator>
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