Griese to Bears

The Bears found a solid backup to Rex Grossman on Tuesday by signing QB Brian Griese to a contract that makes him a Bear until 2010. The 31-year-old Griese was owed a $2.6 million dollar bonus had he been retained by the Buccaneers. Instead, he was waived, and signed with Chicago.

Griese led Tampa Bay to a 5-1 record before a knee injury sidelined him for the rest of the season. He should be healthy enough by the time the preseason opens to challenge Grossman for Chicago's starting spot. The contract is lengthy, but it's a good move for a team that has struggled at the QB position over the last three seasons when Grossman has been injured.