April 09--Former Chicago Bears cornerback Charles Tillman was in Charlotte on Wednesday night for a free-agent visit with the Carolina Panthers and coach Ron Rivera, ESPN reported.
New Bears general manager Ryan Pace and coach John Fox have indicated they do not intend to re-sign Tillman. The 34-year-old finished the last two seasons on injured reserve with a torn right triceps.
Rivera was the Bears' defensive coordinator from 2004-06, Tillman's second through fourth years in the NFL.
When Tillman officially leaves the Bears, he'll exit as one of the best defensive backs in team history. The two-time Pro Bowler nicknamed "Peanut" established a legacy defined by an uncanny ability to punch the ball loose from opposing ball-carriers and a deep passion for community service.
The Bears signed veteran cornerback Alan Ball on March 27 to a one-year, $3 million contract, adding him to a position group that includes 2014 first-round pick Kyle Fuller and veteran Tim Jennings.
Tillman's visit with the Panthers is scheduled for Thursday, NFL Network reported.