Agent says Pro Bowl DT Melton accepts $8.45 million franchise tender from Bears

Published March 8, 2013 11:22pm EST | Updated January 13, 2015 12:17pm EST

CHICAGO – Pro Bowl defensive tackle Henry Melton has accepted the Chicago Bears' $8.45 million tender after being hit with the franchise player tag.

Melton's agent Jordan Woy posted Friday on Twitter that they will still try to negotiate a long-term contract before the July 15 deadline. The Bears placed the franchise tag on Melton on March 1.

The 26-year-old Melton made his first Pro Bowl last season, tying for third among defensive tackles with six sacks while forcing two fumbles.