Bears claim offensive tackle Paul Cornick off waivers

Bears coach John Fox and offensive coordinator Adam Gase added a familiar face to their team on Tuesday. The Bears claimed offensive offensive tackle Paul Cornick off waivers from the Denver Broncos, according to the NFL’s transaction wire.

Cornick started six games last season as an extra tight end and right tackle last season for the Broncos. Cornick took over at right tackle in Denver’s sixth game last season but never became a long-term solution.

Cornick was waived on Monday, just two days after the NFL draft. The Broncos drafted Colorado State offensive lineman Ty Sambrailo in the second round.

What does Cornick’s addition mean for the Bears?

With Kyle Long apparently remaining at guard for the time being, Cornick could become Jordan Mills most formidable competition at right tackle. He’s definitely familiar with Gase’s philosophies and language.

Tackles Michael Ola (last year’s top reserve at guard and tackle) and Charles Leno (a 2014 seventh-round pick) also remain on the roster. The Bears also drafted TCU’s Tayo Fabuluje in the sixth round on Saturday, but he requires some time and work.

Cornick, 26, went undrafted out of North Dakota State in 2012 and initially signed with the New York Jets. The 6-6, 310-pounder appeared in 12 games last season for the Broncos.