Combine: Bears turn focus to signing ... Orton

INDIANAPOLISThe Bears offseason plan to spend money on their own extends beyond Bernard Berrian, Lance Briggs and Brendon Ayanbadejo.

In fact, it goes well beyond efforts to re-sign the three players who will be free agents when the clock strikes 11 p.m. on Thursday.

Quarterback Rex Grossman agreed to the terms of a one-year extension which could be worth nearly $5 million on Saturday.

Next up?

Looks like quarterback Kyle Orton will be paid. He is believed to be on the verge of receiving a two-year extension, and an announcement could come in the next few days for the former fourth-round draft pick.

Orton, who has a 12-6 career record as a starter, built mostly during 2005 when he was 10-5, is entering the final year of his rookie contract and the Bears could be motivated to lock him up because they do not want Grossman and Orton both coming out of contract following this coming season.

Orton started the final three games of the 2007 season, winning two, and was impressive in victories over Green Bay and New Orleans, two opponents who came to Soldier Field with playoff implications riding in their performances.

The Bears have stated Grossman and Orton will wage a competition to determine the starter for the 2008 season.