Brian Urlacher wanted to re-sign with the Bears.
Instead, they’re parting ways with the veteran linebacker after 13 years.
Free-agent Ed Reed was fairly certain he wouldn’t be back with the Super Bowl champion Ravens. Last night Reed was on the verge of signing a deal with the Texans, according to multiple reports.
CBSSports.com reported a deal was in place, and the NFL Network quoted Reed as saying he was headed to Houston “unless something changes.”
The Texans wouldn’t confirm the reports.
Earlier, Chicago general manager Phil Emery said the team couldn’t agree on a contract with Urlacher, for years the heart and face of the franchise. He is now a free agent after being slowed by a knee problem and then missing the last four games of the season with a hamstring injury.
“We were unable to reach an agreement with Brian and both sides have decided to move forward,” Emery said in a statement. “Brian has been an elite player in our league for over a decade. He showed great leadership and helped develop a winning culture over his time with the Bears. We appreciate all he has given our team, on and off the field. Brian will always be welcome as a member of the Bears.”