Bears sign Shaw; Brooks on hold

Updated: September 14, 2009, 8:37 PM ET
By Jeff Dickerson | ESPNChicago.com

Looking for depth after season-ending wrist surgery for Brian Urlacher, the Chicago Bears signed linebacker Tim Shaw on Monday, the team announced.

The Bears had been in contact with free-agent linebacker Derrick Brooks, a league source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter on Monday, but they informed the former NFL Defensive Player of the Year that they intend to go with their younger players for now.

"They just want to take more time with their decision," Brooks said.

Shaw played in three games for the Jacksonville Jaguars last season and in 14 games for the Carolina Panthers in 2007.

He is expected to contribute immediately on special teams.

Jeff Dickerson covers the Bears for ESPNChicago.com.

Jeff Dickerson | email

Chicago Bears beat reporter
Dickerson has been the Bears beat reporter for ESPN Chicago since 2004. He also hosts weeknight radio shows on ESPN 1000.

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