Ryan Poles reveals information about the decision to release both Eddie Jackson and Cody Whitehair.

Approximately two weeks ago, the Bears freed up some salary cap space by releasing long-time veterans Cody Whitehair and Eddie Jackson from the team. Ryan Poles, discussing the move during the NFL Combine, shared insights into the decision-making process.

Expressing gratitude to the departing players, Poles explained, “We felt like it was the right time to give them an opportunity to test the market and see what’s out there for them.” The decision aimed to afford Whitehair and Jackson ample time to explore new opportunities before the start of NFL free agency on March 13.

Poles emphasized the importance of transparency and respect for players, extending the sentiment to other team members like Justin Fields. In the event of a potential trade involving Fields, Poles stated, “If we go down that road, I want to do right by Justin as well.”

The releases of Whitehair and Jackson were primarily motivated by the need to create cap space, resulting in a significant boost to the Bears’ cap room, making them the third-highest in the NFL at around $80 million. However, the team will incur dead cap charges for the remainder of the players’ contracts.

Whitehair’s dead cap value is approximately $4.1 million (1.66% of the cap), while Jackson’s is around $5.5 million (2.26% of the Bears’ total cap). Despite these dead cap payments, the Bears aim to optimize their financial flexibility for the 2024 season.

Both veterans, Jackson and Whitehair, are expected to find new teams for the 2024 season. Jackson, a former All-Pro cornerback, rebounded with a four-interception season in 2022 after struggling in 2020-21. Whitehair, with the highest average annual value among centers, should attract interest in a somewhat depleted free-agent center market, especially considering the potential retirement of Jason Kelce.

The center free-agent market includes notable names like Connor Williams, Brian Allen, Mason Cole, Andre James, Aaron Brewer, and Whitehair’s de facto backup, Lucas Patrick. Despite a suboptimal 2023 season, Whitehair is anticipated to secure a new position for the upcoming season.