CHICAGO: Star defensive end Julius Peppers signed a six-year deal worth 91.5 million dollars with the Chicago Bears on Friday as the National Football League entered a new era without a salary cap.

Because NFL owners and players have been unable to agree upon terms for a new contract, a 2010 season without a salary cap entered its free agency signing period with several major contracts being signed.

The Bears, who have missed the NFL playoffs in the past three seasons after reaching the Super Bowl, also inked former Minnesota running back Chester Taylor and ex-San Diego tight end Brandon Manumaleuna.

"It's one thing to play football in this league and make a living, but it's a totally different thing to come to a place with a rich tradition like the Bears," Peppers said.

The New York Giants made Antrel Rolle the NFL's highest-paid safety with a five-year deal worth 37 million dollars to the former Arizona standout.

Miami signed a five-year deal with another ex-Cardinal, linebacker Karlos Dansby.

Indianapolis re-signed linebacker Gary Brackett to a five-year deal while San Diego traded cornerback Antonio Cromartie to the New York Jets and receiver Anquan Boldin was dealt from Arizona to Baltimore.