Bears defensive tackle Henry Melton is ready to sign his franchise tender.
Melton’s agent, Jordan Woy, wrote on Twitter that Melton has accepted the tender offer, which means he is willing to play the 2013 season for a guaranteed salary of $8.45 million. However, Woy added that he and Melton want to work with the Bears on getting a long-term deal done before the July 15 deadline.
Woy also represents Cowboys defensive end/outside linebacker Anthony Spencer, who has also decided to sign his franchise tender now while still working on getting a new deal done in the coming months.
The 26-year-old Melton, who was selected to his first Pro Bowl last season, said after the Bears franchised him that he took it as a compliment that they were willing to commit to him. Some players don’t like the franchise tag, but Melton is glad to take it.