Bears Further Strengthen Secondary by Signing Former Steelers CB Artie Burns
By Karl Rasmussen
The Chicago Bears will be relying on their defense once again in 2020 as they look to claw back into playoff contention. They further fortified their star-studded unit on Saturday with a quality depth signing for the secondary.
Former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Artie Burns is reportedly headed to the Windy City, latching on with the Bears on a one-year contract.
Former Steelers’ cornerback Artie Burns is signing with the Bears on a one-year deal, per @RosenhausSports.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 21, 2020
Burns will join a cornerback room in Chicago already consisting of Kyle Fuller, Kevin Tolliver, Buster Skrine and Michael Joseph.
Last season in Pittsburgh, Burns featured in 10 games, making just one start. He's seen his role decrease in each of the past two seasons after having started all 16 games and barely missing a single snap in 2017. Across his first two NFL seasons, Burns recorded four interceptions, 26 pass breakups and 119 tackles.
Deon Bush just posted a video of him working out with new #Bears cornerback Artie Burns on his Instagram. Perfect timing. ?? pic.twitter.com/ccIFwgi0ND
— Nicholas Moreano (@NicholasMoreano) March 21, 2020
Defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano will likely utilize Burns as a depth option, and the 24-year-old may also feature for the Bears on special teams.
After addressing the quarterback position by bringing in Nick Foles from the Jaguars, the Bears are continuing to add talent on defense, making a quality signing in Burns that stands precious little chance of blowing up in their faces.