Jay Ratliff signs with Bears

Oct 28, 2012; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys nose tackle Jay Ratliff (90) during the game against the New York Giants at Cowboys Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

Former Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Jay Ratliff has been searching for work since his release from the team, and he was picking up plenty of interest from around the league. The Chicago Bears, Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins all met with Ratliff, with the Cincinnati Bengals also showing interest.

Now, one of those teams has decided to bring him on board.

Despite the fact that Ratliff is still a few weeks away from playing, the Chicago Bears have agreed to a one-year deal with the four-time Pro Bowler.

Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network passed along the news:

Ex-Cowboys DT Jay Ratliff may not be able to play for a few weeks. but he has a deal. A 1-year deal with the #Bears, per source.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 2, 2013

Once Ratliff is healthy enough to return to the field, the Bears are hoping that they can plug him in for Henry Melton, who they lost for the season near the beginning of the year.

Ratliff certainly has the talent to make an impact in Chicago, but it is a matter of how healthy he really will be.

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