Chicago Bears release linebacker Jerrell Freeman

The first noteworthy move by the Chicago Bears has been made. Veteran linebacker Jerrell Freeman has been released. Many other moves are expected to be made in the relative future.

The Chicago Bears figure to have a busy off-season. They will have many cut players that will be cut for either their lack of impact or to save some money.

This will allow general manager Ryan Pace to spend it on players that can help the Chicago Bears make the playoffs next year.

Today, Ryan Pace let the first domino fall: releasing middle linebacker Jerrell Freeman, who only played one game last season. Freeman tore his pectoral muscle against the Atlanta Falcons. Then, he got suspended for PEDs for the second straight season.

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I don’t think it’s any coincidence that Freeman is the first cut. Pace and new head coach Matt Nagy are trying to change the culture around Halas Hall. Under previous head coach John Fox, Alshon Jeffery and Freeman both saw suspensions due to PED usage.

It’s highly possible that Nagy and Pace are trying to send a message to fans and current Chicago Bears players that they will not stand for behavior that negatively hurts the franchise.

They could have cut quarterback Mike Glennon or wide receiver Markus Wheaton first. They also could have cut all three of them at the same time. Yet, it’s only Freeman, so far.

Next: Chicago Bears: What’s “Plan B” for upgrading at wide receiver?

Buckle up, Bears fans. There’s a new sheriff in town and he’s not messing around. It’s going to be a hectic offseason.