Bears release Jaye Howard
The Bears have terminated the contract of defensive end, Jaye Howard instantly making him a free agent
When Jaye Howard was released by the Chiefs, it was a puzzling move. When he was signed by the Chicago Bears, many expected that he would not only make the roster but would be a starter.
However, neither came to fruition, as Jaye Howard has become the surprise Bears cut this offseason.
#Bears have informed DE Jaye Howard his contract will be terminated. Veteran's hip was feeling better.
— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) September 2, 2017
Howard played in all four of the preseason games and made three tackles. However, he has been severely outplayed by Roy Robertson-Harris. Jonathan Bullard has been injured and up and down, but the team has decided to trust the youth of the two over Howard.
Howard is in his sixth season in the NFL. It means that he will clear waivers, and can be signed by any team at any time. Howard started his career with the Seahawks but spent his last four seasons in Kansas City. With the Chiefs, he started in 30 games, including 19 starts over the past two seasons.
However, last season a hip injury limited his availability and limited his status on the field. While he maintains his hip is fine, that, along with the youth and talent of Bullard and Robertson-Harris clearly played a role in his release.
As the Bears roster shapes up it looks as if Akiem Hicks, Eddie Goldman, Mitch Unrein, Bullard, Robertson-Harris and one of C.J. Wilson and John Jenkins will be the six defensive lineman that the team carries.