Bears Sign DT Akiem Hicks To Four-Year, $48M Extension

Ian Rapoport reports that the Bears have re-signed DT Akiem Hicks to a four-year, $48 million extension that includes $30 million guaranteed.

Back in July, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reported that Hicks could be seeking an extension worth $10 million and it appears as though he managed to do even better than that.

Hicks previously mentioned that he was hoping to get what he deserves if he reached free agency next year, but still wanted to remain with the Bears long term.

“I know it’s not always the best way to think of it with this being a business, but I want to get what I deserve or get what I have earned,” Hicks said, via Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune. “If I earned a new contract, that’s what I earned. If I don’t, that’s the case. It’s really not up to me. I get to put my stuff on the field and show them what I can do, but I can’t make them go upstairs and sign me to a different piece of paper.

“Would I sign back in Chicago? Hell, yeah. In a heartbeat. My mom loves this city. I love this city. My mother was back there saying, ‘Oh, baby, Chicago wants you? You going to go play for Chicago?’ She loves it. She’s from here. It’s becoming home and I would love to continue playing here if the situation permits.”

Hicks, 27, was traded to the Patriots in return for TE Michael Hoomanawanui back in 2015. He played out his contract and was among the best available free agents. He was entering the final year of a two-year, $10 million contract that he signed last offseason.

In 2016, Hicks appeared in all 16 games for the Bears and recorded 54 tackles, seven sacks, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and two pass defenses. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 12 interior defensive lineman out of 126 qualifying players.