Bears Lose McCown To Bucs
(CBS) Opportunity and money have led quarterback Josh McCown to Tampa Bay.
After filling in admirably for an injured Jay Cutler in Chicago last season, McCown signed a two-year deal with the Bucs on Wednesday afternoon, his agent confirmed. The contract is worth $10 million -- $4.75 million this season and $5.25 million next, according to multiple reports.
McCown kept open the option of returning to Chicago, but he also expressed a desire to compete for a starting job. He wouldn't have that chance in Chicago behind Cutler, but he'll find it in Tampa Bay, where he'll compete with Mike Glennon.
McCown threw for 13 touchdowns and one interception in eight games for Chicago last season. He started five games.
Bears general manager Phil Emery addressed McCown's exit Wednesday, saying he was "very happy" for him.
"He should've been provided the opportunity to go look, which he did," Emery said.
"We all want to congratulate Josh. He has been provided with a great opportunity to be a starter down there in Tampa. We're very happy for him and very proud for you him. Obviously, we look forward to competing against him on the field, but very happy for him that he has had this opportunity. That's what I talked about post season about that Josh has earned the right and the respect to be given the opportunity to go and look, and he found that opportunity, and we're very happy for him."