Da' Bears Football

The Chicago Bears have matched a four-year offer sheet from the Buffalo Bills for Israel Idonije, keeping the Canadian defensive lineman in Chicago. "We want Israel back and we feel that he's a young, quality player, still developing," general manager Jerry Angelo said. Idonije, 25, made 16 tackles in 11 games last season, playing end and tackle -- and on special teams. The six-foot-six 275-pounder from Brandon, Man., has spent the last two seasons with the Bears. He played collegiate football at the University of Manitoba. Also yesterday, Bears cornerback Jerry Azumah retired because of neck and hip pain, ending a seven-year career with Chicago in which he made the Pro Bowl in 2003.

Patriots re-sign cornerback Scott

Cornerback Chad Scott is staying with New England, the first signing by the Patriots in an offseason in which stalwarts such as Willie McGinest and Adam Vinatieri left the team. Scott is a former first-round draft pick who spent most of last season on injured reserve. He re-signed Wednesday, a day after Vinatieri, who kicked the game-winning field goals in two of the Patriots' three Super Bowl wins, signed with the Indianapolis Colts, replacing Canadian Mike Vanderjagt.

Vikings sign McMahon to two-year deal

Quarterback Mike McMahon signed a two-year contract yesterday with the Minnesota Vikings. The former Philadelphia pivot will likely serve as a backup to Brad Johnson this season. "It's a great opportunity for myself, a chance to learn from Brad and see how he prepares," McMahon said. "I'm very excited." McMahon played last year with the Eagles under offensive co-ordinator Brad Childress, now Minnesota's head coach. He also spent four seasons with Detroit.