Chicago Bears Franchise Tag Henry Melton

Dec 4, 2011; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Henry Melton (69) celebrates his sack during the first half against the Kansas City Chiefs at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports

As the Chicago Bears try to figure what they are going to do with Brian Urlacher and Devin Hester, they seem to have already made a decision about defensive tackle Henry Melton.

With Henry Melton making his first pro bowl in just his 3rd year in the league, being 1 of the 5 Chicago Bears (4 being on defense) to Hawaii to represent them for the NFC.

Melton, along with Tim Jennings were topping votes for the Chicago Bears with over 477,000 votes between the two of the defensive stand outs for the Monsters of the Midway.

A 3 year veteran out of the University of Texas, Melton has slowly become a key part of the Chicago Bears front line with career numbers, 83 total tackles, 15.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery.

Decisions are still yet to be made for two other key pieces to this team, but right now they franchised tagged the pro bowl defensive tackle which is figured to be around $8.45 million from their $12 million cap space.

The Chicago Bears have until July 15th to sign Melton to a long term deal or that $8.45 million will count towards their cap space as a franchise tag designation.

Henry Melton recently tweeted out about the decision saying

"“Good to be a Bear for another year hopefully we can get a long-term deal done soon! #BearDown#FranchiseTag“"

Now that they have applied the franchise tag, the clock is slowly ticking, they have some time but I have a feeling the team will sign Melton to a deal soon enough so they won’t have to worry about that $8.45 million hit.

Henry Melton had a career high 43 tackles last season, recording 6 sacks and 2 forced fumbles.