Chris Leak to Chicago Bears



GAINESVILLE — Former Florida QB Chris Leak wasn’t drafted Sunday, but he has already found himself an NFL team.

Chris Leak signed with the Chicago Bears as a free agent within minutes of the conclusion of the draft, his agent Terence Patterson said Sunday.

Patterson said he had been in serious talks with at least three or four teams throughout the later part of Sunday afternoon.

“It was in the works all day, but it was really dependent on how various teams were trying to fill their needs,” Patterson said. “It was probably better for Chris from the standpoint in that he’s going to a place where he’ll be able to excel. If you’re drafted, you have to play for that team even thought it might not be the best fit.”

Bears officials said they could not confirm free agent signings until Monday, but Curtis Leak said his son is expected to be at the Bears’ minicamp next week.

“His agents had a bunch of offers, and he chose Chicago,” Curtis Leak said. “It’s a real good situation.”

Chris Leak will join former Gator QB Rex Grossman in Chicago. Chris Leak replaced Grossman in Gainesville after Grossman was drafted in 2003.

Nine former UF players were drafted over the weekend, but only two on offense: WR Dallas Baker and RB DeShawn Wynn, both in the seventh round. WR Jemalle Cornelius was not drafted.

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