TE Bennett leaving Giants for Bears

With two big moves as free agency kicked into gear, the Bears gave their quarterback protection on his blind side and another playmaker at tight end.

Considering they also hired an offensive-minded coach in Marc Trestman this offseason and already had a star receiver in Brandon Marshall and solid running back in Matt Forte, it appears Cutler now has the weapons he needs — or at least more of them.

The Bears still might look to add to the offensive line in the draft. They also have some other issues to address after going 10-6 and missing the playoffs for the fifth time in six years — particularly on defense. Pro Bowl defensive tackle Henry Melton seeking a long-term deal after signing his $8.45 million franchise tender and franchise icon Brian Urlacher hitting the market for the first time. Strong side linebacker Nick Roach is also a free agent.

But the Bears addressed their biggest concern by bringing in Bushrod.

A person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press that the deal is potentially worth about $36 million, with $17.7 million guaranteed. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the terms had not been released.

Bushrod was drafted in the fourth round by New Orleans in 2007. He started on the Saints' 2009 championship team and made the Pro Bowl the past two seasons.