Bears Elevate OT James Brown As Rachal Abruptly Leaves Team
(CBS) Offensive coordinator Mike Tice said earlier Wednesday that the team was considering all options on the offensive line. Well, the first shakeup has occurred.
The Bears announced Wednesday afternoon that left guard Chilo Rachal left the team for personal reasons and rookie offensive tackle James Brown was elevated to the 53-man roster.
Rachal struggled against the 49ers, his former team, Monday and according to the Chicago Sun-Times, "the 49ers knew how to 'get in his head,' prompting Rachal's poor performance. The report cites a source that describes Rachal as "emotional" and says he "needs constant positive reinforcement."
Brown is an undrafted free agent out of Troy and impressed the Bears coaching staff in training camp. He has spent the entire regular season on the practice squad, but could earn playing time given the current state of the offensive line. At 6-4, 306 pounds, he doesn't have ideal offensive tackle height, but has shown promise and could be used inside at guard as well.
With Rachal out, Chris Spencer could reclaim his starting role or the Bears might also look at Edwin Williams who has been inactive all season.
