CHICAGO – Cornerback Charles Tillman retires from the NFL as arguably the greatest defensive back in Chicago Bears’ team history.
Tillman’s talent transcended schemes. Over 12 years in Chicago, Tillman proved to be one of the NFL’s most well-rounded defenders.
Drafted by the Bears in the second round in 2003, Tillman originally thrived in Greg Blache’s attack-style of defense before setting in to Lovie Smith’s zone oriented Cover-2.
Aided by a ferocious pass-rush in 2005 and 2006, Tillman played his part to near perfection, helping Chicago build the league’s top rated defense en route to back-to-back NFC North titles and a trip to Super Bowl XLI.