Last night’s preseason opener for the Broncos and Bears wasn’t pretty. They rarely are, and when teams keep their starters off the field like they did, the possibility for ugliness is even more likely. Still, it was the debut of Peyton Manning in a Broncos uniform, his first chance to work with his new team in a game setting. Clearly, that was the highlight. Want to review? Let’s hit on some highlights from our trip to Chicago… – I think I’m over the jarring feeling of seeing Manning in another uniform. Took a while, but I’ve grown accustomed to it. That’s just kinda how this all is. Players change teams, with so few exceptions. That’s reality. But it was cool […]

Lance Briggs‘ new contract with the Bears includes over $8.25 million in new guarantees, and richly rewards the linebacker for his work with the team. A year after requesting a trade, and at a time when linebackers have been struggling mightily to get significant contracts on the open market, Briggs secured a strong deal from the Bears thanks to his agent Drew Rosenhaus.

The Chicago Bears agreed to terms on one-year contracts with free-agent CBs Kelvin Hayden and Jonathan Wilhite on Thursday, according to a league source.

At least four teams are in contention for free-agent running back Michael Bush, according to league sources.

Bears CB Corey Graham will visit the Seahawks on Sunday, and they’re one of five teams interested in his services, according to a league source. Graham has two more visits set up for early next week. He’s viewed by teams as versatile, able to play corner, nickel corner and safety. Graham has spent the past five seasons with Chicago, who drafted him in the fifth round of the 2007 draft. Follow Jason La Canfora on Twitter @JasonLaCanfora.

Free-agent DB Brandon Meriweather has agreed to a two-year deal with the Redskins worth $6 million, according to a league source.

The Bears moved quickly in free agency to lock up a backup QB, agreeing to terms with Jason Campbell on Tuesday, according to league sources.

Brandon Marshall will join some familiar faces in Chicago, and history suggests he’ll be right at home playing with former Denver teammate Jay Cutler under the direction of quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates.

In acquiring wide receiver Brandon Marshall on Tuesday, the Bears pulled the trigger on a move that makes a lot of sense, both on the field and in their checkbook.

Put the brakes on the speculation that Mario Williams will call Soldier Field home in 2012. The Bills now may be the favorite.

With negotiations ongoing with nose tackle Broderick Bunkley, the Denver Broncos have reached out to Miami Dolphins free agent nose tackle Paul Soliai. Miami is attempting to retain the Pro Bowler.

Mario Williams is a young and dynamic passrusher, the type of player we don’t typically see on the open market. The Texans are unlikely to retain his services, and the Bears could be coming hard for him.

Stephen Hill continued his meteoric rise up the draft boards with a fantastic workout at Georgia Tech’s pro day Thursday.

Quarterback Russell Wilson put on a show Wednesday at the University of Wisconsin’s pro day

The Saints used their franchise tag on Drew Brees, but the QB is reportedly upset enough about the move that he might not sign the deal.