Bears Release T Jermon Bushrod

(CBS) The Bears released left tackle Jermon Bushrod on Tuesday afternoon, bringing his three-year career in Chicago to an end.

The move comes after Bushrod was primarily relegated to second-string duty in 2015, when he played in 12 games but started just four as Charles Leno Jr. emerged at left tackle. Cutting Bushrod will save the Bears about $4.3 million in cap space as well.

"We thank Jermon for his contributions to the Bears," Bears general manager Ryan Pace said in a statement. "I have so much respect for how he carries himself on and off the field. He was a locker room leader and contributor in helping the younger players on our team grow. We wish him and his family the best as they move forward."

Bushrod, 31, started 30 games for the Bears across 2013 and 2014 before sliding on the depth chart. He originally signed a five-year deal worth nearly $36 million in 2013 to come to Chicago.

With Bushrod gone, the Bears could turn to Leno at left tackle again or shift right tackle Kyle Long to the blind side to protect quarterback Jay Cutler.