June 02--A day after the Chicago Bears waived former sixth-round pick Tayo Fabuluje, the search for reinforcement on the offensive line has led to a big name. Four-time Pro Bowl tackle Jake Long has a workout with the Bears on Thursday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Long, 31, has played eight NFL seasons and is a logical candidate for the Bears to evaluate as they look for a swing tackle to add depth to their O-line.
Long, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 NFL draft by the Miami Dolphins, made the Pro Bowl after his first four seasons. But a history of injuries and a decline in his overall play have left him in a search for work this offseason.
Long spent most of last season as a back-up with the Atlanta Falcons, appearing in only four contests without making a start.
Long left Miami after his fifth season to join the St. Louis Rams. But his two seasons with the Rams in 2013 and 2014 were both cut short by season-ending anterior cruciate ligament tears.
Long's experience -- he has made 96 career starts -- would certainly be an asset. But the Bears will also have to assess just how much is left in Long's tank. Long will also have to consider whether he'd be willing to sign a low-money "prove it" contract to accept back-up role with Charles Leno and Bobby Massie currently inked in as the Bears starters at tackle.
