The Bears have added experienced depth to their secondary. They signed veteran defensive back Nick McCloud to a one-year contract, the team announced on Monday afternoon.

McCloud has played 48 games since joining the NFL, representing the Bengals, Giants and 49ers, with 16 starts under his belt.

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The N.C. State and Notre Dame product has 84 tackles, an interception, three forced fumbles and 10 passes defensed. He has primarily played outside cornerback but has significant experience in the slot.

That versatility will help in both spots as possible backup options. The Bears have Kyler Gordon in the Josh Blackwell as an available reserve. Jaylon Johnson and Tyrique Stevenson started outside, though Terell Smith returns as a strong back up and occasional start.

The McCloud addition could help make up for Jaylon Jones’ loss. The veteran recently signed with the Arizona Cardinals in free agency. If that’s the case, expect McCloud to be a core special teams player with some opportunities to contribute on defense in case of injury.

All that said, Stevenson’s starting spot isn’t a stone-cold lock. While he’s a talented player, Smith challenged him for playing time last season. That suggests he could receive competition working under new coordinator Dennis Allen and position coach Al Harris.

The Bears secondary remains largely intact, with the aforementioned cornerbacks and safeties Kevin Byard III, Jaquan Brisker, Jonathan Owens and Elijah Hicks. It was a team strength last season and should be again, even with strong additions to the defensive line.

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