Bears sign C Roberto Garza to one-year extension
The Chicago Bears and center Roberto Garza have agreed to terms on a one-year contract extension, the team announced Friday.
Garza, 35, is concluding his 14th NFL season and 10th with the Bears. At 5-10, Chicago will miss the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season. Widespread changes could take place as the status of general manager Phil Emery, head coach Marc Trestman, quarterback Jay Cutler and several other players remains unknown. Cutler said Friday that "everyone could get axed."
Garza missed four games this season because of an ankle injury, marking his first since 2010 in which he won't play 16 games. Over his 14 seasons, Garza has appeared in fewer than 16 games just four times.
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According to the Chicago Tribune, Garza received news of the extension on Christmas via a call from his agent.
There was little haggling, Garza joked, with his own desire to continue playing reciprocated by the team that has employed him since 2005.
"At my position and my age, there's not much negotiation," Garza said. "So pretty straightforward."
Garza reportedly considered retirement at various points this season, but told the Tribune that the restlessness he felt while being sidelined with a high ankle sprain in Weeks 2-5 was proof that he wanted to continue playing.
The Bears will end their season Sunday against the Vikings in Minnesota.
- Mike Fiammetta
