The Chicago Bears aren’t necessarily hurting for cap space. Even with zero moves, they have almost $70 million available for free agency next month. However, that doesn’t mean they plan to keep expensive players who serve no purpose on this roster. It was only a matter of time before they started making moves. Sure enough, the first big one came down on Friday. According to Adam Schefter, the team parted ways with veteran tight end Gerald Everett, saving $5.5 million in the process.
This was easily the least surprising move of any that was possible. Everett was signed last year following the arrival of offensive coordinator Shane Waldron. The two had a long history together, so it made sense. Unfortunately, Everett proved to be a disappointment. Despite playing all 17 games, he caught just eight passes for 36 yards. He was a complete non-factor on offense.
The Chicago Bears have a few interesting decisions left
Everett was the most obvious by far. Beyond him? It gets a bit trickier. Safety Kevin Byard was a solid presence for them last season but is 32 years old. Cutting him would net $7 million in savings. DeMarcus Walker is a versatile defensive lineman who’s offered great locker room leadership and solid bursts of pass rush. However, he’s also pushing further into his 30s as well. His exit would net $5.25 million. Lastly is Ryan Bates. The Chicago Bears traded for the guard from Buffalo in hopes he could help settle their interior blocking issues. Instead, he was beset by health problems. As a new offensive staff comes in, his place seems far less certain. Maybe it’s better to get the $4 million savings and move on. Lots of decisions ahead.
Well @Tred — Your view of Ryan Poles’ relinquishment of the typical NFL GM’s duties related to the evaluation of draft prospects, would explain what Lambert writes about in his latest article, entitled:
“A Puzzling Chicago Bears Issue Surfaces Right Before Scouting Combine”
But, is it possible for a grown-ass man to get that far “up in his feelings?”
You, Sir — have your finger on the pulse of the patients at Halas Hall.
Nice work!
@TGena – I’m hoping Poles is now handling the technical, “paperwork” aspects of the job, and Coach Johnson and his staff are actually making final decisions on players. That seems like the most positive division of responsibilities to me. All these Poles fans seem to think that Eberflus was basically responsible for deciding on players, and Poles wasn’t responsible, so let’s hope Coach Johnson now gets the same power.. Right? I mean, look at the all downvotes you get for suggesting Poles bears responsibility for the players here so far. So, in the minds of those people, it must have… Read more »
@Tred —
This is precisely what @PoochPest has been stressing for years.
And, it is also why I have been such a harsh critic of Ryan Poles, over the years.
To my way of thinking: unless your team has a future HOF head coach or a HOF QB, in the building –.the resident GM is (and will always be) the most impactful person there.
HC Ben (and his crew) will make things much better at Halas Hsll — but “dead weight” takes a toll.
Ryan Poles is not a quality NFL GM.
Honestly though, free agent signings hasn’t been kind to Poles. Word is that he brought in guys that the staff wanted, but it’s that true? I’m not saying that it isn’t, but he is the GM. I guess we will get our answers soon enough because now he doesn’t really have the staff to blame, although I hope it is true, because i trust this staff a lot more than the last.
In the NFL, the GM gets all the credit — and all the blame for how his team does, in their personnel decisions.
Do any of you even.know who the Eagles Howie Roseman has as his Assistant GM?
How about Brett Veach’s #2 in Kansa City?
In Detroit? Green Bay? DC?
I thought so.
Ryan Poles’ desk is where all the Chicago Bears roster acquisition credit and/or blame resides.
Stop making excuses!