Bears sign tight end Dante Rosario to one-year deal

The Bears and coach John Fox brought back a familiar face on Thursday, re-signing veteran tight end Dante Rosario to a one-year contract.

Rosario spent the last two seasons with the Bears, appearing in 31 games and starting six. Rosario, who will be entering his ninth NFL season, also played for Fox with the Carolina Panthers (2007-2010) and Denver Broncos (14 games in 2011). Fox and the Panthers drafted Rosario in the fifth round in 2007.

Rosario was originally acquired by former general manager Phil Emery through a trade with the Dallas Cowboys before the 2013 season. He was used as a blocking tight end and fullback by former coach coach Marc Trestman. After one catch in 2013, Rosario had 16 catches for 116 yards last season.

But the Bears’ special teams are where Rosario is needed most. Rosario was a staple on all four special teams the past two years. He was primarily a blocker but also had seven special-teams tackles.