Charles Tillman vows to retire with Chicago Bears

Sep 8, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Charles Tillman (33) makes an interception during the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

It’s uncertain whether or not the Bears will bring back free agent corner Charles “Peanut” Tillman, but he said he’s on good terms with the team and isn’t worried about hi future. “I guarantee you I will retire as a Chicago Bear,” Tillman told 670 The Score, reports Darin Gantt of NBC Sports. 

Tillman has played his entire 11-year career with the Bears. A longtime star and fan favorite on the Bears D, Tillman is best known around the league for his ability to force fumbles using his patented “Peanut Punch” to strip the ball from opponents.

However, Tillman only played eight games this season, as he went on IR after suffering a triceps injury in Week 10 versus Detroit. Tillman, along with other longtime Bear Lance Briggs, both missed time with injuries that contributed to the worst defensive season in Bears history.

Tillman’s name has been linked to the Buccaneers with his former coach Lovie Smith now running things in Tampa. If the Bears believe that they can sign or draft a better corner to play opposite Pro Bowl CB Tim Jennings, then it is likely that G.M. Phil Emery will let Tillman walk.

I think Tillman and the Bears will negotiate a one or two-year deal that keeps Tillman in Chicago, but should he sign elsewhere, Tillman’s guarantee will likely still hold true, as all it takes is a one-day contract for a player to retire with his longtime team.