Late last week, the Chicago Bears made two shocking cuts as they prepare for what should be a busy offseason. The Bears released veteran tight end Gerald Everett and defensive lineman DeMarcus Walker.
The decision to cut Everett was shocking given that he signed a two-year, $12 million deal last offseason. However, the Bears freed up $5.5 million in cap space.
As for Walker, he signed a three-year, $21 million contract with the club in Mar. 2023. But the Bears freed up $5.25 million in cap space, which should help them in free agency. On Tuesday at the NFL Scouting Combine, Poles was asked about why the team released the two vets and gave an interesting answer
According to CHGO Bears, the Bears GM said Everett and Walker's releases were “gray in terms of fit, with scheme change.”
Bears GM Ryan Poles on releasing Gerald Everett and DeMarcus Walker, said it was “gray in terms of fit, with the scheme change.” pic.twitter.com/vWP2iK25cQ
— CHGO Bears (@CHGO_Bears) February 25, 2025
It’s understandable why Chicago parted ways with Everett. That signing was more attributed to Shane Waldron’s offense, who previously coached the veteran tight end. However, with Declan Doyle and Ben Johnson running the show on offense, there’s no need for two tight ends when you have Cole Kmet, D.J. Moore, and Rome Odunze.
Everett struggled in his first year in the Windy City, recording eight receptions (13 targets) for 36 yards, which were career-lows for the veteran pass catcher.
Walker’s release could also be attributed to scheme fit, as the Bears have a new defensive coordinator, Dennis Allen.
This past season with the Bears, the 30-year-old EDGE had 47 combined tackles (career-high), 23 quarterback pressures (career-high), 16 quarterback hits, seven tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. Over his two-year run with Chicago, Walker had 32 quarterback hits, 16 tackles for loss, and seven sacks.
Therefore, do not be surprised to see the Bears make a concerted effort to upgrade their pass rusher in free agency and the NFL draft. Chicago has the cap space (projected $79.7 million) to pursue a few notable players.