The Bears have a pair of notable extensions to work on, but another priority has been taken care of. The team announced on Thursday that defensive tackle Andrew Billings has signed a two-year extension.
As a result of the move, Billings will remain on the books through 2025. The 28-year-old joined Chicago this offseason on a one-year deal worth up to $3.5M. He will see a raise on this latest pact, however; Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports the deal has a maximum value of $8.5M with $6M guaranteed.
Billings has proven to be an effective member of the Bears’ defensive interior, posting 14 tackles (three for loss) and one quarterback hit so far. PFF has credited him with 14 pressures, making him one of the more disruptive members of an otherwise underwhelming Chicago D-line. The former fourth-rounder has also provided a veteran presence to a DT group which includes rookies Gervon Dexter and Zacch Pickens.
As a result, Billings will receive an extended look in the Windy City. The Baylor alum spent three seasons in Cincinnati to start his career before opting out of the 2020 season. He has also had one-year stints with the Browns and Raiders, while spending time on the Dolphins’ and Chiefs’ practice squadx. Billings has played a signficant role in Chicago’s success against the run this season (the team ranks third in the league, allowing 79 yards per game on the ground), though, and he has been rewarded with multi-year security as a result.
“We’re extremely excited to be able to keep Andrew in Chicago,” general manager Ryan Poles said in a statement. “The professionalism, dependability and toughness he brings exhibit the type of player we want in our organization.”
Chicago has work to do on an extension for newly-acquired defensive end Montez Sweat, and the team’s decision to retain cornerback Jaylon Johnson leaves them in search of an agreement on a new contract in the near future as well. Regardless of what happens on those fronts, Billings’ future has now received clarity.
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