Former Ravens OLB Pernell McPhee released by the Chicago Bears

Former Ravens outside linebacker Pernell McPhee was released by the Chicago Bears on Monday, February 26. This move comes with a little over two weeks remaining until the start of the NFL free agency period.

Drafted 165th overall in the fifth-round of the 2011 NFL draft by the Baltimore Ravens, McPhee would play his first four seasons with the Ravens before signing a new contract with the Chicago Bears.

In Baltimore, McPhee amassed 17 sacks while only missing four games in four seasons. He would be a part of the Ravens’ Super Bowl XLVII win in New Orleans. In his time with the Bears (2015-17), McPhee accrued a total of 14 sacks, but missed 12 games in just three seasons.

Durability has been an issue for McPhee since leaving Baltimore. He has suffered from knee and shoulder injuries while with Chicago.

When a former Ravens player hits the open market, fans often hope for a reunion. It rarely ever actually happens, so don’t expect to see McPhee returning to Charm City. I doubt too many people would want this reunion anyway, outside of sentimental reasons. While certainly needing a boost to their pass rush, the Ravens are filled with young talent at the linebacker positions and don’t need an older, now injury-prone player, taking playing time from developmental guys like Tyus Bowser and Tim Williams.