LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) -- The representation for Bears defensive lineman Akiem Hicks approached the team about a contract extension Thursday, a source said. ESPN first reported the news.
Drew Rosenhaus, the agent for Hicks and numerous other notable NFL players, visited with Bears brass as the team held a joint practice with the Dolphins at Halas Hall.
"Akiem wants to finish his career with the Bears, if possible." Rosenhaus told ESPN.
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Hicks, 31, is in the final season of his contract with the Bears. A 10-year NFL veteran, Hicks signed with the Bears in 2016 and has played 68 games in Chicago, recording 27.5 sacks.
Hicks is considered a key leader for the Bears, specifically on the defense.
"Every year he comes in -- and I like this -- with a little chip on his shoulder," Bears coach Matt Nagy said. "It's not just this year. I thought he did it every year that I've been here. He comes into training camp and you can see he's got that competitive edge. He's really wired the right way as far as trying to be competitive. He wants to win and be a great leader and teammate with his guys."
For a time last March, Hicks' future with the Bears was in question as the team was faced with difficult roster decisions in order to get under the salary cap. Chicago instead released veteran cornerback Kyle Fuller, while Hicks has returned for a sixth season with the Bears.
Hicks originally signed with the Bears on a two-year, $10-million deal in March of 2016. He was signed to a four-year, $48-million contract extension in September of 2017 that kept him in Chicago through the end of this 2021 season.
It is not clear what Hicks is seeking in a new contract. As he seeks a contract extension, Hicks has been practicing in full during Bears training camp.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.
