Chicago Bears Trade for DT Brian Price from Buccaneers

The Chicago Bears have acquired former UCLA standout and Buccaneers 2010 second round pick Brian Price, a defensive tackle who will fortify their front four in exchange for what is believed to be a 2013 seventh round pick. The Bears’ defensive line is taking shape, despite some injury concerns. They have a formidable front four including Julius Peppers, Shea McClellin, last year’s second round pick Stephen Paea, and now Price.

Price was traded from Tampa Bay likely stemming from some personal concerns the new coaching staff had about him after he was involved in an altercation with first round pick Mark Barron.

“You can’t have too many good defensive linemen,” Bears coach Lovie Smith said of the deal. “As for as what position he’ll play, we’ll get him into the mix inside — that’s about all I know right now. We’ll let (defensive coordinator) Rod (Marinelli) and (defensive line coach) Mike Phair get their hands on him and see if he can help our ballclub.”

Chicago needed to bolster their depth at the defensive tackle position, and getting Price is a solid low-risk, potentially high-reward move for Chicago.

Bears GM Phil Emery has been aggressive all offseason, and says this is a move that is going to bolster the team’s depth at a position of need.

“It’s a statement that we’re going to continue to work on our roster,” Emery said. “We’re never going to rest on our roster, to find players that we feel can help us in our scheme and push towards our goals.”

The Bears’ goal is obviously getting to the Super Bowl, and they took a big step forward to that goal with their moves this offseason. Acquiring Price, who has had some injury and personal issues, including the tragic death of his 30 year-old sister, to deal with. Perhaps a fresh start in Chicago can help turn his career around.