Bears Rumors: Olin Kreutz wants to retire in Chicago

Chicago Bears standout center Olin Kreutz will be on the free agent market this week, soon after the signing period begins. That doesn't mean that Kreutz wants to test the market.

According to sources with ESPN, Kreutz and the Bears will meet this week to talk about a new deal. Kreutz is seeking a "respectable" long term deal that would allow him to retire as a member of the team.

Kreutz may be the top free agent offensive lineman this year and with many teams looking to improve their lines, Kreutz could easily get a very good deal with another club.

The Bears veteran was drafted in 1998, has played his entire career with the team, and is the longest tenured player on the team. He has been selected to six Pro Bowls and considered the leader and anchor of the Bears' offensive line.

Although Kreutz has consistently played well, the Bears' line allowed a league high 56 sacks last season and was ranked 22nd in the run game.

Not only will the Bears need to resign Kreutz, but the team will need upgrades at the other positions in order to improve on those rankings.