The Facts: The Chicago Bears have tendered a qualifying offer to Bell, their restricted free-agent running back. Bell, a former undrafted player from UCLA, would make a salary of $1.26 million by signing the one-year tender.
Diehards Line:Agent Harold Lewis, can negotiate with any club through April 20. If Bell were to sign an offer sheet with a new club, the Bears would be able to match the offer and retain him. If the Bears decided not to match any offer, they would not receive any compensation in return based on the level of Bell's tender. ... According to Tribune staffer Vaughn McClure, Bell wants to remain in Chicago and should have the inside track to serve as Matt Forte's backup next season. Bell proved his worth at the end of last season after Forte went down with a season-ending knee sprain. He rushed for 240 yards in the final three games, including a career-high 121 yards on 23 carries in a loss at Green Bay.