With the start of NFL free agency rapidly approaching, the mood around Lance Briggs' camp is surely one of excitement. He's one of the best linebackers in the NFL, 27 years old and about to be available to every team in the NFL, so long as they reach his asking price. It's long been assumed that the Bears wouldn't be one of those teams. They went through protracted and often bitter negotiations before making him their franchise player last season which left a bad taste in the mouth of both sides. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, says the bad feelings have been blown out of proportion, though, and Briggs would be happy to remain a Bear.
"He at many times has said he would love to come back to the Bears. All that's behind him. That was the frustration of being franchised. Lance has no ill feelings toward the Bears and would be very happy to continue his career in Chicago if it turns out that way."It's not going to turn out that way. Rosenhaus is a good agent because he knows there's no reason to cut off a potential bidder but unless there's a hometown discount, Briggs is as good as gone.
If the Bears are sincere about upgrading at safety and offensive line, as well as increasing competition at quarterback and running back, there's no chance they can offer Briggs enough money to be a player. The team seems comfortable with Jamar Williams replacing Briggs on the outside while repairing other spots. That's the smartest strategy in terms of both fiscal and roster management.
The likelihood of the Bears retaining Briggs didn't improve one iota because of Rosenhaus' statement. It came just after he said he was excited about the prospect of a three-time Pro Bowler hitting the open market in his prime. I'm not sure what the name of Briggs' tune will be but Chicago won't be his kind of town much longer.
