Bears Sign Ex-Buc LB Geno Hayes

[BIGGIEsmalls 23]

The Bears on Thursday added depth and created more competition at linebacker by agreeing to terms with veteran Geno Hayes on a one-year contract.

Hayes has appeared in 56 career games with 42 starts, recording 334 tackles, 36 tackles-for-loss, seven sacks, four interceptions, 16 pass breakups, four forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.

The 6-1, 226-pounder blocked a punt and returned it 22 yards for a touchdown against Carolina on Oct. 12, 2008 and brought back an interception 41 yards for a score at Arizona on Oct. 31, 2010.

After playing in nine games primarily on special teams as a rookie, Hayes became the Buccaneers’ starting weakside linebacker in 2009, replacing 11-time Pro Bowler Derrick Brooks.

Last season Hayes started 13 of 16 games played, registering 86 tackles, seven tackles-for-loss, one interception and two forced fumbles.

Hayes is not yet sure what his role will be with the Bears.

http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsSt ... ry_id=8755

I am more convinced now that the FO simply did not want DT Okoye. We obviously had the money, but have chosen to spend it on several new players since he signed elsewhere.

[Pax for Prez]

I think the FO is allocating salary by slotting players on the depth chart.

Okoye would be the 4th DT on the roster with increase playing time for Paea. So why overpay for a 4th DT ? when that extra salary can be used towards a starting player in the future.

Most of the players slotted 4th or 5th on the depth chart are getting min. deals.

It's been a very good offseason so far .....I can't wait for the draft.

Pax

[Chewie]

Dude has some legal troubles in his past but he's all of 24 and yet has 4 quality pro years - much of it starting - under his belt. We needed vet experience @ LB and he provides that. At best, he gives Roach a run for his money and at worst he's injury insurance. Emery continues to do his thing...

[heir_jordan22]

I like this signing. Played in Tampa-2, is young, can start, can play special teams. Emery continues to add youth, depth, athleticism and talent. Now to get a couple new starters in the draft.

[patryk7754]

Do you guys think we still try to sign Rocky McIntosh

[emperorjones]

No, he came in for a visit right before Hayes. I read that they chose to go with Hayes instead because he was younger & plays in the same defense.

[kyrv]

I don't know Hayes but the new GM seems to be making very good moves, at least on paper, usually in the past most moves would (and probably should) be questioned, especially draft picks. Oh the draft picks. Let's hope Phil can draft.