By Brad BiggsSo much for the Bears taking veteran Nathan Vasher to training camp to see if they finally could get a return on the rich contract they gave him in the summer of 2007.
Less than 24 hours after signing veteran cornerback Tim Jennings to a two-year contract, the Bears bid goodbye Wednesday to the player coach Lovie Smith dubbed "The Interceptor" when he burst onto the scene with 13 interceptions in his first two seasons.
The former fourth-round draft pick from Texas became a starter midway through his rookie season in 2004 and was a Pro Bowler the next year when he made a team-high eight interceptions for one of the best defenses in the NFL. But after the 2006 Super Bowl season, Vasher's play dipped dramatically. Not before the popular teammate had cashed in with a $28 million, five-year extension.
Vasher, 28, earned the bulk of that money in 2007 and 2008 when injuries limited him to only 12 games. A groin muscle tear in 2007 in Week 3 vs. Dallas ruined that season. He required wrist surgery the next season. Vasher had bulked up to play the run better and lost some of his quickness. Later, he lost his confidence.
Photo: Nathan Vasher's performance had faded since his early days as "The Interceptor." (Chris Walker/Tribune)
He appeared in 15 games with two starts last season. He made a key
interception in his only play on defense in the loss at Atlanta in
October. Smith worked to get him more playing time after that, but
things never fell into place for him and it was clear during the
offseason that the coaching staff was more interested in developing
Zack Bowman than seeing if Vasher could regain his form. He made 13
tackles for the season.
Now, Vasher will get an opportunity for a fresh start elsewhere and the Bears will be able to consider Jennings for a role as perhaps a nickel back. They're also clear from having to pay Vasher a big salary to sit on the bench.
Now, Vasher will get an opportunity for a fresh start elsewhere and the Bears will be able to consider Jennings for a role as perhaps a nickel back. They're also clear from having to pay Vasher a big salary to sit on the bench.
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wow the bears are growing a pair and cleaning house with dead weight.. about time!! amazing what win or else does to a team huh?
Yes, Vasher hasn't been the same player he was before that large contract, but look who they replace him with a guy who stands 5'8".
Now they need to can Tommie Harris. He makes way too much for his minuscule production. Cut him and if he'll resign for a small amount plus incentives, fine. If not, it's time to say "au revoir"!
'bout time! Vasher played like Prancer, looked like he was tickling ball carriers and not tackling them, and couldn't cover a receiver in a closet
I couldn't be happier. As HHN wrote, he was never the same after getting big money. It was pathetic watching him last year trying desperately to avoid any kind of contact. Not jumping in a pile to go after a fumble, falling down 4 yards in front of a runner to avoid a tackle, and so much more. I don't know what happened to the guy mentally, but he was just a liability the last several years. Thank goodness he is gone. Maybe the Bears do have the stomach to make some moves that benefit the team rather players who cannot (or will not) play any longer. Watch out Tommie, somebody may be coming up on you.
I'll never forget watching live the 108 yard missed field goal return against San Fran... that was one amazing play. Good luck, Nate.
Amen. I liked Vasher early on, but he was never the same player after that contract. It wasn't just the injuries - he was mentally and physically soft.
Now apply these savings on signing Otogawe...Make him an offer he can't refuse and the rams can't match...
Unfortunate but I guess the Bears had to do it. Vasher had been one of my favorite players since his rookie year but sometimes the injury bug catches up with you. Hopefully he gets another shot somewhere else.
If all he lost was a step, he would have been ok. The problem was he lost a few.
i am sure they did not have to think to long about this decision
First, McKie --- now, Vasher.
Over all, --- a good couple of days.
Why did it take so long? Two years too late.