The Chicago Bears signed veteran inside linebacker Joe Thomas on Tuesday, the team announced.
Thomas has served as a core special teamer throughout his career, but he’s solid depth at the linebacker position, where he can step in when called upon.
Last season, Thomas, 30, appeared in five games, including two starts, with the Houston Texans before being released Oct. 16. He then appeared in two games with the Baltimore Ravens as a reserve.
Thomas has played in 89 games, including 16 starts, in his seven years in the NFL. That includes stops with the Green Bay Packers (2015-17), Dallas Cowboys (2018-20), Texans (2021) and Ravens (2021). During that span, he’s totaled 218 tackles, 12 tackles-for-loss, 1.5 sacks, one interception, 10 pass breakups, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.
#Bears roster move:
We have signed ILB Joe Thomas.— Chicago Bears (@BearsPR) March 1, 2022
With the Bears switching to a new 4-3 scheme under Matt Eberflus, there’s a greater need for linebackers alongside Roquan Smith, who is the only starter currently in place.
But depth is just as important, and Thomas will provide solid depth at a position that’s become a bigger focus heading into the 2022 season.
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