[CBFF] Bears land veteran defensive tackle Walker

[Jason Cetina]

http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=3631

BOURBONNAIS, Ill. – The Bears on Sunday bolstered their defensive line by
acquiring veteran nose tackle Darwin Walker from the Buffalo Bills in
exchange for an undisclosed pick in the 2008 NFL Draft.


*Darwin Walker smothers Green Bay Packers running back Ahman Green.*Walker
appeared in 87 games with 75 starts the past six seasons with the
Philadelphia Eagles, recording 264 tackles, 27½ sacks, five forced fumbles
and five fumble recoveries.

In 2006, the 6-3, 294-pounder registered 56 tackles, six sacks and his first
career interception while starting 15 of 16 games played for the Eagles.
Walker then tied a Philadelphia post-season record with two sacks of Drew
Brees in a playoff loss to the New Orleans Saints.

Walker was traded to the Bills March 26, but he never reported to training
camp because he was seeking a long-term contract extension. Reportedly there
was a stipulation in the trade that stated that Walker would be returned to
the Eagles if no deal was completed by Aug. 5.

The situation is reminiscent of another trade the Bears made prior to Lovie
Smith's first season in 2004. In that deal, they  sent receiver Marty Booker
and a conditional draft pick to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for defensive
end Adewale Ogunleye, also a training camp holdout.

Acquiring a quality nose tackle in Walker figures to help limit the number
of double team blocks that Pro Bowler Tommie Harris typically attracts.
Walker is expected to watch practice from the sideline Sunday afternoon and
speak with the media.