Bears Cut Tight End Everett, Defensive End Walker Ahead of Free Agency

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Chicago Bears announced the release of veteran tight end Gerald Everett and defensive end DeMarcus Walker on Friday, significantly impacting their salary cap ahead of the impending free agency period. The cuts will save the team a combined $10.75 million in cap space, positioning them with nearly $80 million available for the 2025 season.

Walker, 30, joined the Bears in 2023 on a three-year, $21 million contract and was slated to earn $5.2 million in the final year. During his two seasons in Chicago, he played in 34 games, starting all 17 last year and recording career-highs with 16 quarterback hits and 3.5 sacks. Despite his efforts, Pro Football Focus ranked him 60th out of 119 edge rushers last season.

Everett, also 30, was signed to a two-year, $12 million deal last offseason with expectations of being a significant asset in the passing game. However, he struggled to make an impact, finishing the season with just eight receptions for 36 yards in a backup role behind starter Cole Kmet. His low usage and lack of production raised questions about his fit in the Bears’ offense, prompting the decision to cut him.

General Manager Ryan Poles appears to be gearing up for a pivotal offseason as the Bears look to rebuild under first-year head coach Ben Johnson. The release of both players comes nearly three weeks before the start of the NFL’s new year, as Chicago prepares for a flood of roster changes.

With these cuts, the Bears saw their salary cap room rise to approximately $79 million, placing them fourth in the league behind the New England Patriots, Las Vegas Raiders, and Washington Commanders, according to ESPN’s Dan Graziano. The team’s financial flexibility will be crucial as they eye promising free agents, including Kansas City guard Trey Smith, and aim to improve their offensive and defensive line.

Last season, Walker contributed significantly on the defensive side but was unable to emerge as a top-tier edge rusher. Meanwhile, Everett’s release may indicate a shift in strategy, as Johnson’s offense previously utilized dual tight end sets extensively while he was with the Detroit Lions.

Moving forward, the Bears are expected to be active in free agency and the upcoming draft, particularly in pursuit of tight ends to pair with Kmet and bolster the offensive line.

As the Bears look to establish a dynamic offense for projected future quarterback Caleb Williams, they will need to reevaluate their roster and develop a cohesive game plan that better fits their personnel.