Adding depth behind starting nose tackle Eddie Goldman, the Bears signed the hulking John Jenkins to a one-year deal Friday.
Bears GM Ryan Pace was part of a Saints front office that selected the Georgia alum in the third round of the 2013 draft. He started 22 of 49 contests for them before being released in November; Jenkins finished last season with the Seahawks, appearing in two games.
The 6-3, 359-pounder becomes the Bears’ heaviest defensive player by more than 20 pounds. His size has helped him gain a reputation as a run-stuffer; the 27-year-old has only 1 ½ career sacks.
Jenkins — who also played alongside new teammate Akiem Hicks in New Orleans — is the first defensive lineman the Bears have signed during the free-agency period.
