The Philadelphia Eagles have offered Bears unrestricted free agent defensive tackle Steve McMichael a contract worth nearly $1 million.
“We did make him an offer. The ball is in Steve’s court,” Eagles personnel director Tom Gamble said Friday.
The Bears hiked their initial offer of $850,000 to $875,000 several days ago, but McMichael rejected it.
“We would still like to sign him,” said Bears finance director Ted Phillips.
McMichael, 35, who is representing himself in negotiations, has been seeking a guaranteed two-year deal. Tampa Bay also is interested in him.
The Bears are continuing to pursue Washington Redskins free agent cornerback Martin Mayhew, who visited Halas Hall last week. Mayhew, who was paid $360,000 last season, reportedly is seeking a $1 million contract.
Meanwhile, talks with Leigh Steinberg, agent for quarterback Jim Harbaugh, continued Friday. Harbaugh is believed to be seeking a four- or five-year deal worth between $2.6 and $3 million a year.
New Orleans Saints free agent fullback Craig Heyward is scheduled to visit the Bears next Thursday.
