Bears agree to terms with QB Hanie

The Bears are expected to carry four quarterbacks to Bourbonnais this summer.

Theyll start with two in rookie minicamp next weekend, and there could always be a third who shows up as a tryout guy.

Colorado States Caleb Hanie has agreed to terms to a contract as an undrafted free agent, joining Southern Illinois Nick Hill, who the team targeted first according to sources familiar with the situation.

Like Hill, Hanie made a pre-draft visit to Halas Hall. He followed Bradlee Van Pelt in school and was a productive performer for the Rams. He’s a little erratic at times, but is athletic. He needs to improve his accuracy.

As we’ve said here earlier today, it could be the Bears carry only two quarterbacks on the 53-man roster this seasonRex Grossman and Kyle Orton. They could stash a third on the practice squad and have some increased roster flexibility, especially for when some injuries hit.

The Bears had 62 players under contract when the draft began and selected 12 players. But they do not count against the 80-man roster limit until they sign their contracts. So, it was misreported here that they can sign only six undrafted free agents. The Bears can actually sign 18. Theyll bring in fewer than that and let some tryout players fight for a job or two. They can only carry 80 to training camp, so as draft picks sign, players will have to be cut if the club is at the 80-man limit. Well do our best to track down a list of these free agents as soon as we can. The Bears should release some kind of list Monday.

Right now, we know about Hill, Hanie, Western Kentucky wide receiver Curtis Hamilton and St. Xavier kicker Shane Longest. As always, stay tuned.

Inside the Bears is going to pack the car and head home after a marathon session at Halas Hall. Well be back here in the morning when first-round pick Chris Williams arrives. Check in for a few updates throughout the day.

Remember, training camp is just 86 days away.