NFL Free Agency 2014: Chicago Bears sign Lamarr Houston to five-year deal

Dec 29, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive end Lamarr Houston (99) reacts during the game against the Denver Broncos at O.co Coliseum. The Broncos won 34-14. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

The Oakland raiders were flush with salary cap space but decided not to bring back Lamarr Houston this offseason. Oakland’s loss is apparently Chicago’s gain as the Bears have reportedly reached a deal with the free agent defensive end minutes into free agency.

DE Lamarr Houston to the Bears. Deal is for $35 million over 5
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 11, 2014

The signing is notable for the Bears as it seems to signal an end for Julius Peppers, at least long-term. The Bears needed an upgrade not heir defensive line and that’s exactly what Houston provides them.

Chicago was pondering bringing back some of their veteran stars,but they pound almost immediately on signing Houston to a rather large deal. Now that they have a prized defensive end, Chicago will look to fill out other holes on the roster and there remain some on defense.

Safety is the most notable hole and while they spent big on a defensive end, Chicago may have bought their way out of the ability to sign a top safety not he market.

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