Chicago Bears sign Trevor Scott

Aug 20, 2012; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive end Trevor Scott (99) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second quarter of the preseason game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Bears have signed defensive end Trevor Scott to a one-year deal, per Dan Wiederer of the Chicago Tribune. Scott was a sixth round pick of the Raiders in 2008. After four seasons with Oakland, he played for the Patriots in 2012 and the Buccaneers last season.

After being a disaster on defense in 2013, the Bears get needed depth on the D-Line with Scott. For a team that likely awaits an offseason full of change on that side of the ball, Scott’s signing could mean the Bears will offer several one-year deals as a sort of stop-gap measure while their draftees develop.

Scott is a 6-5, 260 pound end who has appeared in 76 games over six seasons, and started 18. Scott only played in four games for the Bucs last season before being released in October. Scott’s best two NFL seasons were his first two, where he totaled 57 of his 86 career tackles and 12 of his 16.5 sacks.

As mentioned above, the Bears have numerous holes to fill on defense, but it looks like they’re starting by addressing their line. After re-signing Jeremiah Ratliff yesterday, the Bears still have decisions to make about Henry Melton, Corey Wootton and Nate Collins, all of whom are free agents-to-be. Also, the team will seriously consider releasing Julius Peppers this offseason.