National Football League

Bears agree to deal with LB Williams

Published Mar. 22, 2013 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

The Chicago Bears have agreed to a one-year contract with linebacker D.J. Williams, giving them a possible replacement for Brian Urlacher.

General manager Phil Emery said Friday that Williams has a chance to ''restart his career'' after he was suspended for part of last season in Denver.

The deal comes two days after the Bears said they couldn't agree on a contract with Urlacher, the eight-time Pro Bowl selection. Chicago also has an opening at strong side linebacker with Nick Roach signing with Oakland.

Williams has played middle and outside linebacker. He missed nine games while serving a pair of NFL-mandated suspensions last season and was released by the Broncos on the eve of free agency, freeing up his $6 million salary.