Heyward Set to Sign With Bears

The Chicago Bears have agreed to terms with New Orleans fullback Craig (Ironhead) Heyward, sending an apparent farewell message to incumbent Brad Muster.

A team spokesman said Sunday that Heyward will sign in the next day or two. He reportedly will get $3 million for three years plus a $200,000 bonus each season if he reaches accepted weight levels. Heyward has weighed close to 300 pounds in some seasons.

Muster, the team’s starting fullback since 1989, is also a free agent and will visit the Saints on Monday. Muster and Heyward were both taken during the first round of the 1988 draft.

The Bears also had extended a proposal to Raider fullback Steve Smith. Muster already has visited the San Diego Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs and New York Jets.