- PHOTOS: Bears 2012 season in pictures
During this NFL free agent period, Urlacher's representatives have reportedly been in contact with the Minnesota Vikings.
Urlacher could still stay with the Bears. But the recent acquisition of tackle Jermon Bushrod and tight end Martellus Bennett will make it tough for the Bears to stay under the salary cap.
"We are up against the cap," Emery said. "So, we are going to have to be very slow and methodical and make sure that every decision that we make is going to be in the best interest of our team moving forward in terms of putting the best players on the field to win. It is going to have to be slow because every dollar is going to count against the cap and we are up tight against the cap."
The Bears have cut tight ends Matt Spaeth and Kellen Davis and defensive tackle Matt Toeaina to save money against the cap well as open up roster spots. Whether it will be enough to sign Urlacher is an open question.
An unrestricted free agent, Urlacher missed the last four games of 2012 due to a hamstring injury after suffering from knee problems earlier in the season. He will be 35 in May.
Emery repeated an earlier statement that he will not openly discuss his negotiation process with Urlacher.
"We have approached him about coming back," Emery said. "As far as working it out, that is an ongoing process."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
