The Bears are turning to the CFL for a new defensive back.
Chicago is signing Calgary cornerback Tre Roberson, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Roberson chose the Bears over nine other offers, according to Schefter.
The Bears must be high on Roberson, as they’re expected to give him the largest CFL-to-NFL compensation since the Dolphins signed Cameron Wake in 2014.
Roberson, 27, had seven interceptions in 16 games this season with the Calgary Stampeders.
Prior to his time in the CFL, Roberson was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Vikings in 2016. Despite a strong preseason, Roberson never saw the field in the regular season.
The Bears have a decision to make at cornerback, which hinges on what they ultimately decide to do with veteran Prince Amukamara. Amukamara could very well wind up a cap-casualty, as the Bears could save $9 million by releasing him.
If the Bears were to release Amukamara, they’d never someone to line up opposite Pro Bowler Kyle Fuller. Second-year corner Kevin Toliver saw time at the position with Amukamara dealing with a hamstring injury over the last few weeks, and he is certainly an option. They could also turn to the NFL Draft, as there’s considered to be a deep cornerback class this year.
Considering the compensation the Bears are giving him, you figure Roberson will factor into things, as well.
