Frank

Omiyale

On Wednesday the Chicago Sun Times reported the Bears would be “fortunate” to have Carimi back before midseason, so today’s news is highly encouraging. The rookie right tackle suffered a subluxation of the right kneecap in Week 2 against the Saints. Frank Omiyale - Carimi’s replacement - is a big liability in protection.

The 29-year-old was owed $2.1 million while counting $2.8 million against the cap. After shuffling between guard and tackle his first two years in Chicago, Omiyale started at right tackle early in 2011. One of the least effective pass protectors in the league, Omiyale lost his job by mid-season. At very best, he’s ticketed for a backup/swing role on his next team.

The 29-year-old Omiyale will reunite with OL coach Tom Cable, who had him as a rookie in Atlanta during the mid-2000s. Omiyale offers versatility with the ability to play four positions on the line -- all but center. He adds competition for James Carpenter at right guard and Breno Giacomini at right tackle.

Omiyale knows Seahawks offensive line coach Tom Cable from their time together in Atlanta, early in Omiyale’s career. Versatile but largely ineffective, the 29-year-old should be willing to play for a veteran’s minimum salary.

Frank Omiyale will also be in the mix, and Seattle is expected to add some offensive line help via the draft. Pro Football Focus graded McQusitan as average in 2011, but he was the top-rated guard on the Seahawks. John Moffitt is the favorite to start on the right side, but must fend off newly-signed Deuce Lutui.

Okung’s knee is merely bruised, but he wasn’t strong enough to play in Week 2. Frank Omiyale filed in well on Russell Wilson’s blindside.

“It’s unfortunate because he was playing some of the best ball of all our guys,” OL coach Mike Tice said. “He’s an elite player. And when you lose a player like that for an extended period of time, it’s never good.” Frank Omiyale will replace Carimi at right tackle. Omiyale is a big liability in protection.

With Gabe Carimi (knee) out, Omiyale has started the last two games at right tackle. But due to atrocious play, he has been benched during the game both times. Now Louis takes over and Chris Spencer returns to right guard despite concerns over a hand injury. The Bears’ pass protection can’t get any worse.

An eight-year veteran, Omiyale appeared in all 16 games for the Seahawks last season, starting one. He’s capable of playing any spot on the line but center. The Panthers are only truly set at left tackle, but Omiyale would just be a depth signing.

Omiyale is a project. He needs time to work on the fundamentals of the position to go along with his size and strength.