Israel Idonije signs with Chicago Bears
Chicago Bears defensive end Israel Idonije (71) during the second half at Soldier Field. The Packers beat the Bears 21-13. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports
The Chicago Bears decided to work out Israel Idonije today, and a reunion was already looking likely when the news was first reported yesterday. Now, Pro Football Talk reports that the Bears and Idonije have indeed agreed to terms, with the Chicago Tribune’s Brad Biggs reporting a one-year deal for Idonije.
This deal carries just about no risk with it, and I would be a bit surprised if Idonije is making more than the veteran minimum after recording just 0.5 sacks in a putrid 2013 season. His one year with the Detroit Lions turned out to be the worst of his career, so I’m sure the 33-year-old is glad to be back in Chicago.
Idonije played for the Bears from 2004-2012, so only last year’s stint with the Lions will be the only time when he has played for a different team. He has the ability to play at defensive tackle or defensive end, and his signing signifies that the already-small chance of Henry Melton being re-signed is just about non-existent at this point. It’s going to be interesting to see how the Bears use him next season, but I’m guessing they will rotate him in and out. Chalk this one up as a quality signing for Phil Emery, because the Bears can easily cut him if he looks washed-up in training camp.