Chicago Bears Claim OT Michael Ola, Release Derrick Martin

Dec. 23, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; General view of University of Phoenix Stadium as reflected in a Chicago Bears helmet during the first half against the Arizona Cardinals. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

The Bears made a couple of roster moves on the second day of OTA’s.  They claimed offensive tackle Michael Ola off waivers from the Miami Dolphins.  In order to make room on the 90 man roster, they waived defensive back Derrick Martin.

Michael Ola played a couple of seasons for the Montreal Alouttes in the Canadian Football League, including one season under head coach Marc Trestman in 2012.  He had signed with the Dolphins in January, but was placed on waivers following a three-day rookie mini-camp.

To make room for Ola, the Bears released Derrick Martin with a non-football injury after he broke his collarbone in a car accident recently.  Martin appeared in seven games for the Bears last season, recording two tackles and one assist.

I wouldn’t read too deeply into the signing of Ola in light of the recent news about Matt Slauson’s shoulder surgery.  I’m sure this is just getting a look at a guy with whom Trestman has some familiarity.   Ola had worked out for the Bears in December, but decided to take his talents to South Beach.