The Chicago Bears addressed a need in the secondary with the signing of veteran cornerback Artie Burns to a one-year prove-it deal.
While Burns was a highly-touted first-round draft pick, he didn’t live up to expectations in Pittsburgh. He started just seven games over the last two seasons for the Steelers, but there’s reason to hope for redemption as he’s just 24 years old and joining a veteran Bears defense.
Burns’ arrival doesn’t signal an immediate starting job, as he’ll have to compete with third-year player Kevin Toliver and fellow free agent Tre Roberson for the spot opposite Pro Bowl corner Kyle Fuller.
Much like the departed Leonard Floyd, Burns didn’t impress during his first four seasons in the NFL. Perhaps a fresh start is exactly what Burns needs to realize his full potential. It also doesn’t hurt that he’ll be working with defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano and secondary coach Deshea Townsend on one of the league’s best defensive units.
Burns feels more like a depth signing at this point, but he’ll certainly get a chance to compete for the starting job opposite Fuller. But based on what he’s done so far, this is just an average signing for the Bears.
Grade: C
What do you think, Bears fans? How would you grade Chicago’s acquisition of Burns?
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