The Bears as expected signed quarterback Jordan Palmer to replace injured third-string quarterback Matt Blanchard. They also signed defensive tackle Eric Foster and cut defensive end Jamaal Anderson and linebacker Andrew Starks.
Palmer, a sixth-round draft pick by the Washington Redskins out of Texas-El Paso in 2007, played in four games over three seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals (2008-10). He completed 10-of-15 passes for 49 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions. He spend part of last season with the Jacksonville Jaguars but did not appear in a game.
Blanchard fractured a knuckle on his left (non-throwing) hand in Thursday night’s preseason game against the San Diego Chargers. It is not yet known how long he will be out. But the Bears need a third quarterback in camp, though it is unlikely they will keep three quarterback on their 53-man roster — unless it’s Blanchard.
The 6-2, 265-pound Foster, an undrafted free agent out of Rutgers in 2008, started 19 games and played in 49 games with Indianapolis Colts from 2008-11. He had 117 tackles, six sacks, four pass break-ups, three fumble recoveries and one forced fumble for the Colts.
The Bears resume practice at Halas Hall on Monday in preparation for their third preseason game Friday night against the Oakland Raiders in Oakland. The practices are not open to the public.
