Bears Release Gerald Everett After Disappointing Season

CHICAGO, Feb. 21, 2025 — The Chicago Bears are parting ways with tight end Gerald Everett after just one season, as confirmed by Everett in a post on social media platform X. The decision allows the team to free up much-needed salary cap space.

In a thank-you message directed at Bears fans, teammates, and the city of Chicago, Everett expressed his appreciation, stating, “Chicago, it was brief and a learning experience, but I appreciate the love the city and the team showed me! Looking forward to the next chapter. On to the next!”

Everett, 30, was signed to a two-year contract worth $12 million last offseason. However, his performance during the 2024 season fell short of expectations, as he recorded only eight receptions for 36 yards and a single touchdown over 17 games, mostly operating in a reserve role behind starter Cole Kmet.

The Bears’ move to release Everett will save the team $5.5 million against the salary cap, with $1 million remaining in dead money. While the final salary cap for the 2025 season has yet to be established, the Bears are projected to have around $69 million in available cap space, ranking sixth in the NFL.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, this decision comes amid a lack of impactful production from Everett, who was originally a second-round pick by the Los Angeles Rams in 2017. Over his career, he has amassed 292 catches for 2,869 yards and 19 touchdowns in 124 games, contributing to rosters that included the Seahawks and Chargers.

Head coach Ben Johnson, known for his effective use of tight ends, will likely seek to bolster the position moving forward. Currently, Kmet remains under contract for 2025, while veteran tight end Marcedes Lewis is set to enter unrestricted free agency this spring, placing the Bears in a critical position to reevaluate their roster.

This early move for Everett not only grants him the opportunity to engage with potential new teams but also allows the Bears to explore stronger fits for their offensive strategy during the upcoming season.