National Football League

Bears agree to deal with LB Anderson

Published Mar. 24, 2013 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

The Chicago Bears have agreed to a one-year contract with former Carolina Panthers linebacker James Anderson, the latest move in a major overhaul at the position.

The deal announced Sunday comes two days after they signed D.J. Williams from Denver to replace Brian Urlacher. They had announced they were unable to reach an agreement with the eight-time Pro Bowl middle linebacker.

Anderson was released earlier this month. He figures to take over at strong side for Nick Roach, who signed with Oakland. The only returning starting linebacker for Chicago is perennial Pro Bowler Lance Briggs on the weak side.

The 6-foot-2, 235-pound Anderson made 53 starts in seven seasons for Carolina. He had 432 defensive tackles, eight sacks, seven fumble recoveries, five forced fumbles, three interceptions, 20 pass breakups and 23 special teams stops.