The Bears released Nate Davis on Wednesday, ending a year-and-a-half pairing in which the high-paid guard missed games and practices, much to the frustration of his bosses.
The move comes three days after Davis was a surprise scratch after the team said he reported a back problem on Sunday morning. Davis was sent home and the team was forced to play with only seven linemen.
Davis’ release was also made possible by the return of guard Ryan Bates, who was activated from injured reserve Saturday and started the Patriots game.
The Bears gave the former Titans guard a three-year, $30 million contract — with $19.