The Chicago Bears face many difficult decisions this offseason after a disappointing 2024 season that virtually wasted rookie QB Caleb Williams' first campaign.
It was obvious early that the organization did a poor job of supporting Williams. While D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, Rome Odunze, and D'Andre Swift theoretically made up a promising skill-position group, general manager Ryan Poles completely ignored the offensive line and left Williams out to dry.
As Poles is quickly learning, the real world isn't a video game and building in the trenches matters. He's got a lot of work to do to prove he isn't overmatched in his current role, though cutting ties with one failed signing would go a long way.
CAP CASUALTY WATCH: Chicago Bears TE is someone who can could cut this off-season to save key dollars in FA to sign a top player like Trey Smith.
— Just Another Year Chicago: Bears (@JAYChi_Bears) February 8, 2025
Everett had 8 rec for 36 yards and 0 TD in '24. If the Bears cut Everett, they save $5.5mil in cap.
Should they cut Everett? pic.twitter.com/QUb77HtJIo
Bears Part Ways With TE Gerald Everett in New Offseason Prediction
"With a $6.5 million cap hit in 2025 and only $1 million of dead cap if he’s cut, it’s hard to see Everett sticking around to be part of Ben Johnson’s offense," Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic writes. "He’ll be 31 in June, and while the Bears’ coaches clearly struggled last year to incorporate the tight end position, Everett’s poor production and high cap charge are a bad combo."
It's a fair argument and one that Everett can't escape. The Bears were lacking a true difference-maker at tight end outside of Cole Kmet, making this an easy decision.
Chicago would only suffer a $1 million dead cap hit by releasing Everett. He caught just eight passes during his inaugural season with the Bears and based on the other needs across the roster, there's no legitimate argument in favor of keeping him.
Poles needs to prove his mettle or risk wasting the entire rookie contract of a prime asset like Williams. Getting rid of Everett is a good first step and here's hoping that Poles realizes it.