The most active team in the NFL free agency market has signed their second player on the first day of free agency. Running back Chester Taylor has agreed to a four-year, $12.5 million contract with the Chicago Bears, a source close to the negotiations has told FanHouse's Dan Graziano. The contract includes $7 million in guaranteed money. Taylor, 30, rushed for 338 yards last season as he played second fiddle to Adrian Peterson in the Vikings' backfield. A capable receiver from out of the backfield, he snared 44 passes for 389 yards. Taylor did run for 1,216 yards back in 2006 -- the only season of his career where he was a featured back.
He will likely split carries in the Chicago backfield with Matt Forte, who just suffered through a down season after a break through rookie campaign in 2008. Both backs will be called upon to do more work in the passing game with new offensive coordinator Mike Martz taking over.
A press conference is scheduled for later Friday afternoon, where the Bears will announce the signings of Brandon Manumaleuna, Taylor and defensive end Julius Peppers.




