The Chicago Bears have re-signed long-serving cornerback Charles Tillman on a one-year deal.

Tillman entered free agency earlier this week having only managed eight appearances for the team last season before being placed on injured reserve with a torn triceps.

The 33-year-old had previously expressed his desire to stay with the Bears, but insisted that he would not be forced out of his favoured cornerback position.

He has been with Chicago since being chosen by them in the second round of the 2003 NFL Draft, going on to make 36 interceptions - the third-highest tally in franchise history.

Tillman also holds team records for interception return yards (675), interception return touchdowns (eight) and defensive return touchdowns (nine).

In the 11 years since he entered the league, Tillman ranks in the NFL's top 10 in interceptions, interception return touchdowns, interception yards, forced fumbles and pass breakups.