NFC North

Chicago Bears release veterans Eddie Jackson and Cody Whitehair, clearing almost $22 million in salary-cap space

The Chicago Bears have released two of their longest-tenured players, safety Eddie Jackson and offensive lineman Cody Whitehair. Both have played their entire careers with the Bears, served as team captains at different points and were entering the final year of their contracts. Whitehair, a second-round draft pick in 2016, started 118 games at center and guard in eight seasons, including 11 games in 2023. Jackson, a fourth-round pick in 2017, started 100 games in seven seasons, including 12 last season. General manager Ryan Poles decided to cut them as he dives into a crucial offseason that r…