His Bears career over, Tillman signs with Panthers
In his 12 years as a Bears cornerback, Charles Tillman became known throughout the NFL for his ability to rip, punch, yank or otherwise extract the football from the grasp of ball carriers.
From his rookie season of 2002, through his final two injury-marred years with the Bears, Tillman forced 42 fumbles, more than anyone else in the NFL with the exception of defensive end Robert Mathis.
But Tillman's Bears days are over. The unrestricted free agent agreed Thursday to a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers, whose head coach, Ron Rivera, was Tillman's defensive coordinator with the Bears from 2004-06.
"I think Coach Rivera was one of the main reasons why I wanted to be here," Tillman told the Panthers' website. "He's a guy that I had a lot of respect for when I was in Chicago. I love his leadership and his qualities as a coach, and he's done a good job with the Panthers."
Tillman is third in Bears franchise history with 36 interceptions, trailing only Gary Fencik (38) and Richie Petitbon (37). His 8 interception-return touchdowns, 9 defensive-return touchdowns (including 1 fumble return) and 675 interception-return yardage and franchise records.
Tillman was voted to the Pro Bowl in 2011 and 2012. But the 34-year-old, second-round pick from Louisiana-Lafayette was plagued by injuries starting in 2013, when he missed the final eight games with a torn triceps. The same injury ended his 2014 season after just two games.
Before 2013, the 6-foot-2, 198-pound Tillman had missed just six starts in eight seasons, despite being one of the NFL's most physical cornerbacks and often shadowing the opponent's best receiver.
"The Bears have been around for nearly a century, and Charles Tillman will go down as one of the best to ever wear blue and orange," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. "Charles' 'Peanut Punch' is now a part of Bears lore. We witnessed what I believe is the best take-away artist of his era.
"But, as impressive as his on-field accomplishments are, his contributions off the field are unmatched. Through his Cornerstone Foundation, Charles and his family have made an impact on the lives of many. He was duly honored as the 2013 Walter Payton Man of the Year and the 2012 NFL Salute to Service winner for his dedication."
The mission of the Charles Tillman Cornerstone Foundation is to provide opportunities and resources to children and their families who are in need.
However long Tillman continues to play, Bears management intends to welcome him back to the team.
"We are deeply appreciative of how he has represented our team," McCaskey said. "We wish Charles and his family the very best as he continues his career in Carolina. And when he decides his time on the field has concluded, we look forward to welcoming him back to the Bears family."
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