The Chicago Bears are already heading into the season with an offensive concern in quarterback Rex Grossman. Fortunately, they'll no longer have to worry about their defensive concern. Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs signed a one-year, $7.2 million contract on Wednesday. Briggs was originally upset that the team had slapped the franchise tag on him, and he threatened to sit out the season unless a new agreement was reached.

"There was no reason to hold out at this point. We were able to gain something in terms of not having the franchise next year. That will give Lance an opportunity to have a great season and maximize his position for next year," said Drew Rosenhaus, Briggs' agent. "We did not want history repeating itself. Unfortunately this is a lengthy process. We were able to get it done."

Many feared that the entire Bears defense would suffer without Briggs' presence. Although Brian Urlacher is an amazing linebacker, he is only half of the dynamic duo. The team was happy to get the deal finished before training camp on Thursday. Last year, Briggs recorded 176 tackles with two interceptions, helping the Bears each the Super Bowl.

"Lance is happy. It's a good outcome for him," said Rosenhaus. "Credit Lance for making the decision to sign and not hold out."