The surprising roster cuts just keep on coming with the Chicago Bears.
After parting ways with quarterback P.J. Walker, who was expected to serve as Justin Fields’ backup, the Bears are releasing former first-round offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Chicago claimed Leatherwood, who was cut by the Las Vegas Raiders after just one season, off waivers just last summer. Leatherwood was considered a project for general manager Ryan Poles, but it appears to be another failed experiment that Poles doesn’t mind admitting went wrong.
Leatherwood appeared in four games last season, where he played 34 snaps. After claiming Leatherwood off waivers last summer, the Bears still owe him $4.59 million guaranteed.
The #Bears are releasing former 1st rounder Alex Leatherwood, source said
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 27, 2023
Leatherwood had been working at left guard this summer behind starter Teven Jenkins. Leatherwood had showed some potential after moving to guard, but Ja’Tyre Carter was impressive at right guard, which could’ve factored into the decision.
Offensive line depth remains a huge concern for the Bears, who have struggled with injuries to their starters, and you have to believe the team will be on the look out for an interior lineman on the waiver wire. And the fact that they have the top spot on the waiver wire means they’ll have first choice.
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