Chicago Bears get a steal, agreeing with free agent linebacker T.J. Edwards

The Chicago Bears got off to a quick start on Monday, agreeing to terms with free agent linebacker T.J. Edwards on a 3-year deal.

The former Philadelphia Eagles backer entered free agency hoping to land his first hefty contract, and it appears as though he’s doing just that.

Last season, Edwards finished sixth in the NFL in solo tackles with 99, and totaled 159 altogether. That included 10 tackles for loss, five quarterback hits and a pair of sacks.

He also added in seven passes defended, five quarterback hits and a fumble recovery.

One thing you can say about Edwards is that he is very dependable. The former Wisconsin Badger played in 17 games last year, putting up his best season yet as a pro.

Ryan Poles and the Chicago Bears are just getting started in free agency

Edwards is just the beginning. He is going to join another former Badger in last year’s undrafted gem Jack Sanborn.

The best part about this signing isn’t even the fact that Edwards is one of the most complete linebackers in football. It’s the fact that Edwards’ deal is for just $19.5 million over three years.

Forget about Roquan Smith or a guy like Tremaine Edmunds asking for $20 million annually. The Bears just got a great, young linebacker at a fraction of the price.

Edwards will turn 27 in August, which means he’ll only be 30 by the time his deal with the Bears is done.

If he wanted to, Edwards could have asked for far more money; think along the lines of $12 million or so on a yearly basis. Instead, Poles worked his magic and was able to secure him for one heck of a price point.

Now, it sure sounds like the Bears are already moving on to bigger and more significant signing such as free agent offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey. Stay tuned.