In response to a report of rumors that Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher has either requested a trade or threatened to take a medical retirement (or both), Urlacher says that the reports are wrong.

“I never said that I was going to quit,” Urlacher told the Chicago Tribune.  “That’s just a gossip column.  Reports like that is why I choose not to speak to the media.”

If taking a medical retirement was ever an option, it isn’t now, given Urlacher’s comments regarding his health:  “[M]y neck is rehabbed and back to normal,” Urlacher said.  “My back is better now than it was at any point last season.”

As to a trade, Urlacher said he’s happy where he is.  “Everybody knows I want to be in Chicago,” he said.  “I’ve said that from Day 1.  I can’t imagine playing anywhere else.  I want to be with my teammates.

“Could I see a scenario where I wouldn’t be here?  It would be if they traded me.  But we all know that’s not going to happen.”

As to his contract status, Urlacher provided the Tribune with a brief update.  “They’ve offered me a one-year extension,” Urlacher said.  “My agents are doing a great job for me.  I try to stay out of it as much as I can.”

It remains to be seen whether the Chicago Sun-Times responds to Urlacher’s attempt to refute its report.