Bears DT Melton signs franchise tender

Defensive tackle Henry Melton signed his franchise tender Tuesday with the Chicago Bears.

Melton is guaranteed $8.45 million, the franchise rate for defensive tackles. The Bears and Melton have until July 15 to work out a long-term deal. or he will go through the season under the terms of the franchise tender.

As of March 1, the two sides were far apart on the value of a multi-year deal.

"Henry has been a good player for us and we are using the franchise tag so his development continues as a Bear," Bears general manager Phil Emery said in a statement when he was tagged. "We will continue our conversations with Henry and work toward a multi-year agreement."

Melton, 26, was named to the Pro Bowl this past season, when Melton had six sacks.