You might also know him as Jay Ratliff. The Chicago Bears agreed to terms on a two-year deal with the defensive lineman on Wednesday night.
The first name question (Jeremiah or Jay?) created a bit of confusion as the news hit the wires.
Mike Garafulo of Fox Sports reported.
Bears announce 2-year deal with DT Jeremiah (nee Jay) Ratliff.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 6, 2014
Adam Schefter of ESPN reported.
Bears agreed to terms with DT Jay Ratliff on a two-year contract.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 6, 2014
Ratliff’s NFL.com page has him as Jeremiah, so take that as the official ruling if you wish.
As for the 32-year-old and his game on the field, 2013 was a spotty campaign for him. After not taking the field for the Dallas Cowboys for most of the season, the team parted ways with him and he caught on with the Bears. Ratliff then returned to action (to the chagrin of Jerry Jones) and recorded nine tackles and 1.5 sacks in five games.
The Bears had so many injuries on their D-line last season that it seemed like they were going to be forced to have an open tryout. It makes sense that they wanted Ratliff back in the mix to add talent and depth in that area.