omiyale

Early in free agency the Chicago Bears made a move to shore up an offensive line made very thin with the expected retirement of John Tait.   The Bears sign 6′4″ 310 lb Offensive Lineman Frank Omiyale, who started 1 game for the Carolina Panthers and appeared in 10 others.  Omiyale is a versatile tackle who can also play guard.  He entered the league as a fifth round selection by the Atlanta Falcons in 2005.

Chicagobears.com reports:

“Omiyale made his lone start last season at left tackle in a 34-0 win over the Kansas City Chiefs. The Panthers rushed for 205 yards and two touchdowns on 48 carries in that contest.

Omiyale appeared in one game in two seasons with the Falcons before being waived by Atlanta on Sept. 1, 2007. ”

I am not sure this is the kind of depth I was looking for on the line, but at least I can say the Bears do not appear to be setting on their hands this off-season.  I really hope the Bears work hard at making John St. Clair an offer he cannot refuse so we do not lose him in free agency.  This also gives the Bears depth on the offensive line, with Tait retiring, Omiyale joins Cody Balough and last years’ first round pick Chris Williams as the only tackles currently under contract for the Bears.