Most significant move: Former Pro Bowl cornerback Tim Jennings is the latest casualty in head coach John Fox’s plan to reboot the organization.
Jennings probably knew his fate Saturday night in Cincinnati when Fox played Alan Ball, Sherrick McManis, Tracy Porter and Terrance Mitchell ahead of the 10-year veteran.
The 31-year old cornerback leaves the Bears with 74 career starts, 353 tackles, 16 interceptions, three touchdowns and six forced fumbles. Jennings best year came in 2012 when he led the NFL with nine interceptions.
Ex-Bears general manager Phil Emery thought so highly of Jennings that he signed him to a four-year, $22.4 million contract with $11.8 guaranteed. Jennings’ deal contained offset language, meaning the Bears will receive a certain amount of relief when the cornerback signs with another team. Jennings’ $4.4 million 2015 base salary is fully guaranteed.
Safety dance: Ryan Mundy had a career year in 2014.
Now he’s headed to injured reserve.
The Bears placed Mundy on injured reserve because of a hip injury the club downplayed. Mundy’s absence further depletes the Bears’ secondary depth. Starting safeties Antrel Rolle and rookie fifth-round pick Adrian Amos have been mediocre the last two preseason games. Brock Vereen, who the Bears demoted to second string after the Miami game, is currently the No. 3 safety on the roster.
The Bears will probably scan the waiver wire for help.
What’s next: The Bears have one more roster spot to trim before Tuesday’s deadline to be at 75 players. Chicago plays its final preseason game against the Cleveland Browns on Thursday. The final 53 man roster must be set by Saturday.
Bears’ moves: DB Malcolm Bronson, TE Kevin Greene, OT Cameron Jefferson, WR Jeremy Kelley, CB Al Louis-Jean, LS Rick Lovato, WR Levi Norwood, DE Olsen Pierre, TE Chris Pantale, WR John Chiles (waived/injured), CB Tim Jennings, RB Daniel Thomas, S Ryan Mundy (injured reserve) and Kevin White (physically unable to perform list).
