Former Chicago Bear pleads guilty to tax charges

CHICAGO (AP) — Former Chicago Bears player Chris Zorich pleaded guilty Thursday to federal tax charges, admitting to the judge that he didn't file "in a timely fashion."

The 43-year-old faced four misdemeanor counts of not filing federal income tax returns from 2006 to 2009. Over that time, he allegedly made more than $1 million, including income from a charity he founded.

The judge asked Zorich if he knew he was wrong not to file the returns.

"Yes, your honor," Zorich said, wearing a black suit and tie.

His attorney previously said Zorich was looking forward to putting the case behind him.

The Chicago native was on the 1988 Notre Dame team that won a national championship. He played for the Bears from 1991 to 1996 and ended his career with the Washington Redskins in 1997.

Zorich must pay $71,000 in back taxes as part of a plea agreement. He is to be sentenced July 12.

Each count carries a maximum sentence of a year in prison and a $100,000 fine.