Bears sign three players to one-year deals

The Chicago Bears knocked out some expected business today when they signed three players to one-year contracts.

Linebacker Tim Shaw, running back Kahlil Bell and defensive tackle Matt Toeaina were exclusive rights free agents. They got their business done in time for the beginning of the (voluntary) offseason conditioning program.

Shaw made eight tackles on special teams in the Bears’ season finale at Detroit to give him a franchise record 30. It was a remarkable feat, especially considering he didn’t join the roster until Week 2 as the player who replaced Brian Urlacher’s spot on the roster.

Bell debuted as a rookie for the Bears on Nov. 23 in a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles at Soldier Field. He had a 72-yard run on his first carry. It was the longest run on a player’s first carry since Baltimore’s Alan Ameche had a 79-yard carry to begin his career in 1955. Bell, who was an undrafted free agent from UCLA, finished with 220 yards on 40 carries.

Toeaina has spent the last three seasons with the Bears but has rarely been called upon.

Follow me on Twitter: BradBiggs