The Chicago Bears have confirmed the signing of Jordan Palmer as a third-string quarterback.

Palmer joins the Bears after their usual third-string quarterback, Matt Blanchard, suffered a broken knuckle during a pre-season win over the San Diego Chargers.

The 29-year-old, who is the younger brother of Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer, was available as a free agent having been released by the Jacksonville Jaguars last season.

Palmer has also been on the books of the Washington Redskins, Cincinnati Bengals and Oakland Raiders during a nomadic career.

Palmer has only appeared in four NFL games during that time, completing 10 of 15 passes for 59 yards with two interceptions.