Bears release EDGE Marcus Davenport - Bears Wire

The Chicago Bears are releasing defensive end Marcus Davenport after he made his 2026 debut, according to NFL insider Aaron Wilson. Davenport was elevated from the practice squad for Sunday's game against the New York Jets and made one tackle while playing 12 snaps in the 23-12 victory. He requested his release from the practice squad, according to multiple reports.

Davenport, a 2018 first-round pick with the New Orleans Saints, signed with the Bears in August to add depth to the defensive line. He reunited with his former defensive coordinator Dennis Allen from their days with New Orleans, and the hope was that Davenport could become a rotational piece with the Bears. Instead, Davenport was part of the final roster cuts and was signed to the practice squad. Davenport has struggled with injuries in recent years and has totaled 24 tackles (two for a loss) and 3.5 sacks in 15 games since 2023.

While it was Davenport who requested his release, the timing could still be an indication that defensive lineman Shemar Turner is ready to return from injury. Turner, a 2025 second-round pick out of Texas A&M, suffered a torn ACL last October and has been rehabbing throughout offseason workouts and training camp. He was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and is eligible to be activated beginning this week after returning to practice following the team's Week 2 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.