The leading tackler of the Super Bowl-dominating defense is rejoining his old coach — and the Bears.
Inside linebacker Danny Trevathan agreed to a four-year deal with John Fox’s team Wednesday. Trevathan was the team’s leading tackler in 2013 and 2015, with an injury-shortened season in between.
He provides an element the Bears did not have last season, when they started Shea McClellin and four onetime-undrafted free agents at the two inside linebacker spots. McClellin is a free agent.
Trevathan had 109 tackles, two interceptions and six pass deflections last season. His speed and coverage ability makes him a three-down player for a unit in desperate need of a talent infusion.
Trevathan spoke of his respect for Fox during Super Bowl week, saying he’d likely meet with his old coach when free agency began.
“Coach Fox is one of the guys who gave me an opportunity to showcase how I can fit in any scheme,” Trevathan said during Super Bowl week. “I’m sure it’ll be there. I’m sure we’ll end up talking.”
The 6-1, 240-pounder turns 26 in two weeks.
Trevathan had reconstructive knee surgery in December 2014 after suffering two left knee fractures and one kneecap dislocation in a four-month span.
His teammate, Malik Jackson, used a remarkable Super Bowl showing to land a deal with $42 million guaranteed from the Jaguars. The Bears were interested, but not at that price.
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