Off the heels of fellow cornerback Nathan Vashar signing on to stay with the Bears for 5 years, Charles Tillman agrees in terms to a six-year deal.
Tillman, who was due to become an unrestricted free agent following the 2007 campaign, is the fourth Bears starter since last summer to agree to a long-term deal before reaching the open market. He follows center Olin Kreutz, linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer and Vasher, who signed a five-year contract June 25.
The Bears surprised many by deciding to sign both of their starting cornerbacks, especially with a their nickel corner, Ricky Manning Jr, having a expensive contract. The Cover-2 does not typically covet the cornerback, as evidenced by the Colts never throwing a lot of money at that position.
The Bears actually ran about 40 percent man coverage in the second half of the season, so they value stronger and faster corners.
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