The Chicago Bears kicked off the 2025 off-season with two prominent roster cuts. One wasn’t a surprise. Tight end Gerald Everett failed to contribute much last year, making only eight catches. It was a disastrous signing that fans are happy to be moving on from. However, a much bigger surprise came when DeMarcus Walker was also released. This was harder to understand. While never known for high sack numbers, the veteran defensive end could still be a disruptive presence and also a vocal locker room leader.
GM Ryan Poles was asked about this at his pre-scouting combine press conference. He made it clear the decision was based on two factors: money and scheme fit.
“Anytime you kind of have gray in terms of fit with the scheme change and their contract situation, I think giving them the opportunity, giving their representation opportunity to come to the combine, get their names out there, they could get a good seat at the table with a team before all the seats are taken.”
In this context, it makes sense. Walker was making around $8 million per year and was pushing into his 30s. New defensive coordinator Dennis Allen doesn’t tend to prefer defensive linemen who are “tweeners.” Walker lacked the explosiveness of a defensive end and the size and power of a defensive tackle.
DeMarcus Walker was a solid player.
He just isn’t what this new coaching staff envisions for the new defense they plan to build. If you look at the array of defensive ends Allen worked with in Oakland/Las Vegas and New Orleans, they were slimmer and more explosive. Walker’s game was about power and violence. One thing is clear. With him out of the picture, it is obvious the Bears will be active in hunting for new edge rushers. Poles hinted that they could double dip with a big move in free agency and another in the draft. DeMarcus Walker never became a star in Chicago, but he was still a welcome addition to the defense during the short time he was here. It will be interesting to see how the new regime goes about replacing him. Allen has connections to several possibilities in free agency next month.
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Just think of all the players that Poles overpaid for and did not play or lead as well as Walker. Shameful.
He was overpaid in the beginning and his play didn’t match his mouth.
I have to agree that Walker was average and just not a good fit for an attacking style defense that coach Allen wants to install. We need edge rushers that have good natural bend and above average speed, we only have Montez Sweat who comes close to those characteristics. I think there’s gonna be many good options in F.A. as well as the draft. I know that coach Allen likes to blitz with linebackers, I hope he mixes in some safety blitzes, I miss those old Mike Brown days when he was Mr. Everything, I love great safeties, but it… Read more »
Some coaches like tweeners because they can be versatile and play multiple positions and roles. Abdul Carter might be one of those types, only much better beyond solid.
At least DeMarcus Walker wasn’t Yannick Ngakoue.