Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson
Last year, the Bears cut defensive tackle Tank Johnson after he was charged with DUI which he was eventually exonerated. Still, the Bears cut Johnson shortly after the arrest because of his history of legal issues.
One would have to surmise the team may repeat its actions regarding running back Cedric Benson. He was arrested Friday night in Austin, Texas for drunk driving. Last month, he was arrested for driving a boat while intoxicated and for resisting arrest.
If the Bears cut Benson, they will certainly need to find a veteran. The biggest names available are Shaun Alexander, Kevin Jones and Travis Henry. It would be highly unlikely a team that just cut a character-issue player who go after Henry, whose off-field issues led to his demise in Denver. Alexander may be too pricey and Jones is coming off a knee injury.
The options are not great but the Bears may be desperate if Benson is cut. The starter would be second-round pick Matt Forte out of Tulane if the Bears decide to cut ties with Benson, the No. 4 overall draft pick three years ago.
