Chicago Bears unlikely to sign Alshon Jeffery to long-term deal

CHICAGO, July 11 (UPI) -- With days remaining before the NFL's July 15 deadline, the Chicago Bears have yet to lock up Pro Bowl wide receiver Alshon Jeffery.

According to the Chicago Tribune's Dan Wiederer, it "would take a dramatic twist" for the Bears and Jeffery to reach a long-term deal before then.

If Jeffery doesn't sign a big deal before Friday, he will likely play this season under the franchise tag.

Jeffery, 26, had 54 receptions for four touchdowns and 807 yards in nine games last season. He arrived at Bears minicamp June 13.

Last week, NFL.com's Mike Garafolo reported that the Bears and Jeffery are "not confident" that a long term deal will be reached.

He would be paid about $14.6 million under the franchise tag. Garafolo reports that Jeffery is looking to make more than $12 million annually with a longer deal.