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New Bears DL Akiem Hicks: 'I'm A Believer'

By Chris Emma--

(CBS) When the Bears first began expressing interest in defensive lineman Akiem Hicks during the legal tampering period, the team was just embarking on its plans for free agency.

Since then, with a plan for revamping the defense in mind, Bears general manager Ryan Pace locked down a deal for linebacker Danny Trevathan, re-signed cornerback Tracy Porter and then signed linebacker Jerrell Freeman on Saturday. At the time, Hicks was still in Chicago, bypassing a visit with the Lions to mull his future with the Bears. The way the pieces of the defense began coming together caught the eye of Hicks.

It was Hicks' relationship with Pace -- who was part of drafting him with the Saints in 2012 -- that made a difference in the selection process, but what stood out was how the Bears' moves have bolstered this team for the future.

"I'm a believer," Hicks said on a conference call Monday morning. "I've seen the moves they've made, and I'm excited to be part of that."

Hicks on Sunday signed a two-year deal worth up to $10 million, including $5 million all guaranteed in 2016.

The 26-year-old Hicks stands at 6-foot-5 and 318 pounds. Bears tackle Kyle Long tweeted that the team had signed an actual bear to their defensive line. A four-year NFL veteran, Hicks was drafted by the Saints in the third round of the 2012 draft out of Regina in Canada, after previously playing at LSU. He spent three full seasons with the Saints before being traded to the Patriots early in the 2015 season.

Hicks has 70 tackles and 9.5 sacks in 61 games. He's considered a fit at the five-technique but has the ability and versatility to move across the defensive line, complementing Eddie Goldman well.

"I am what my coaches decide I am," Hicks said of his role with the Bears.

After spending the weekend in Chicago, his mother's hometown, Hicks came to the decision that he would sign with the Bears. Early in the free agency process, as many as 12 teams had shown interest in Hicks, with the Bears among his first suitors.

Now, Hicks is another key addition ready to bolster the Bears defense in 2016.

"I wanted to be on a team that has a legitimate chance to win," he said.

Chris Emma covers the Chicago sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.

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