Bears defensive tackle Nick Williams used to dread free agency. He languished through it, sweating through workouts in Alabama and hoping anybody would call, and once watched an entire season slip away as his phone stayed silent.
This time around will be different.
Williams, a 29-year-old journeyman, saved his career with a breakout season in which he finished second on the team with six sacks. He won’t be a premier target, but there will surely be significant interest.
“Yeah, yeah, I think I’m gonna have fun in free agency this year,” Williams said. “Obviously I want to be back here.