Report: Veteran Linebacker Cato June Signs With Bears
Published by Jake Perper on December 1, 2009
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, veteran linebacker Cato June has been signed by the Chicago Bears.
The former Colt (2003-2006), Buc (2007-2008), and Texan (2009) has appeared in 88 games, making 504 tackles, one sack, 12 interceptions, and three forced fumbles over six seasons.
The 30-year-old was drafted in the sixth round by the Colts in 2003 out of Michigan. He was voted to his only Pro Bowl in 2005. He won a Super Bowl ring in 2006 with the Colts, in a game that came against the Bears. He left that offseason for Tampa Bay for some big money, but was released this offseason because the Bucs were going to a younger team. He signed with the Houston Texans this offseason, but broke his forearm in a practice and was put on injured reserve. He was released with an injury settlement at the start of the season.
The Bears need some linebackers after Lance Briggs was roughed up in Minnesota. They have already lost starters Brian Urlacher and Pisa Tinoisamoa. They still have Hunter Hillenmeyer, Nick Roach, and Jamar Williams as experienced linebackers. June will definitely see some playing time on Sunday, with Briggs iffy for the game.
What does this move mean for the long term?
Well, Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs, Hunter Hillenmeyer, and Pisa Tinoisamoa will all be over 30 next season. Tinoisamoa is a free agent, so maybe they’re seeing if June is a starter for next season. Personally, I like the signing. June is a very versatile player, but he is kind of small. At 6′0,″ June is one of the smallest linebackers in the league. June will be flying around on Sunday.
Jake Perper is the creator of www.BearsBacker.com and also covers the Bears for www.NFLTouchdown.com and www.MVN.com.
Read more Chicago Bears news on BleacherReport.com
