Bears Blitz

Published by Evan Higgins on March 6, 2010
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears

As day one of the 2010 free agency period concludes, the build-up definitely did not disappoint. Here is the roundup of the biggest releases, signings and trades that went down on the first day of Free Agency.

Just hours into the start of the Free Agency period, the Detroit Lions were able to grab a number two receiver they have been looking for by signing former Seattle Seahawk Nate Burleson to a five-year deal. 

Not too long after, the Lions were able to snag defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch from Tennessee and acquire defensive tackle Corey Williams from the Browns, remotely alternating projected draft plans. 

Another story to wake up to was the release of quarterback Jake Delhomme of the Carolina Panthers. It was an emotional departure, as he and head coach John Fox had a strong bond that was able to land him a $42.5 million contract extension just the year before.

Carolina would later release more veterans, including defensive tackles Ma’ake Kemoeatu and Damione Lewis and linebackers Na’il Diggs and Landon Johnson, leaving questions surrounding this defense.

The Chicago Bears were the most aggressive team by far, signing All-Pro defensive end Julius Peppers to a six-year, $91.5 million deal. They also signed running back Chester Taylor and tight end Brandon Manumaleuna.

The Atlanta Falcons filled a big hole by snatching cornerback Dunta Robinson away, and signing him to a six-year deal. The fit was perfect, as this also allows him to return close to home.

Atlanta wasn’t the only team to acquire a star cornerback, as the New York Jets may have solidified themselves as the top cornerback duo in the league, acquiring former Pro Bowl cornerback Antonio Cromartie for a third round pick in 2011.

A couple linebackers will be testing the market, as Miami‘s Joey Porter and Akin Ayodele were released, along with Philadelphia‘s newly acquired Will Witherspoon. 

As Chicago and Detroit had a successful day improving their team, the Arizona Cardinals were definitely the biggest losers, and their offseason seems to be getting worse and worse. 

Quarterback Kurt Warner retired and they lost linebacker Karlos Dansby, as he signed with the Dolphins. They also traded receiver Anquan Boldin to the Ravens for just a third-and-fifth round pick, and released safety Antrel Rolle, who would later sign with the Giants.

Anquan Boldin was able to land a four-year extension after being traded to the Baltimore Ravens. 

A couple players did re-sign with their respective teams, including linebacker Gary Brackett and nose tackle Vince Wilfork, quarterback Chad Pennington, tackle Chad Clifton, and receiver Kevin Walter. 

Although many of the big names were signed today, there is still plenty to come for the rest of the free agency period.

Defensive end/linebacker Aaron Kampman is the hottest name remaining, and could look to sign with a new team as quickly as Saturday. 

With this being an uncapped year, look for many teams to continue expensive but skilled players throughout the rest of the offseason. 

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