*** DOLPHINS NEWS ***

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Feb 21, 1996: -- Cox Signs With Bears --

ESPN is reporting that Bryan Cox has signed a 4 year deal with the Chicago Bears worth $13.2 Million with an additional $5 million signing bonus. Cox will start at middle linebacker for the Bears after spending the last 5 years with the Miami Dolphins.

Cox, who has been to the Pro-Bowl each of the last 3 years, was a 5th round draft pick of the Dolphins back in 1991. He became famous around the league for his emotional outbursts on the field that resulted in several fines from the league.

Cox lead the Dolphins in tackles last year with 147 and had 7.5 sacks. He has been the emotional leader of the defense for the past 4 years.

My Comments:

I've always liked Bryan Cox and I will be sorry to see him go. However, he will be getting a lot more money than the Dolphins are willing to pay him and he may not be Jimmy Johnson's kind of player.

Cox had said that he would give the Dolphins a chance to meet any offers, but it's doubtful that the Dolphins can match a $3.3 million per year offer along with a $5 million bonus. That's close to $4.5 million per year against the salary cap.

I certainly do wish him the best and I hope that he conquers his tendency to lose his temper on the field. I guess I'll have to watch some Bears' games this year.