Bears release offensive tackle Jermon Bushrod

Bushrod, 31, signed a five-year deal with Chicago in 2013 that included $17.7 million in guaranteed money. (Charles Rex Arbogast/AP)

LAKE FOREST, Ill. — The Chicago Bears have released offensive tackle Jermon Bushrod after he made just four starts in 12 games last season.

Bushrod, 31, signed a five-year deal with Chicago in 2013 that included $17.7 million in guaranteed money. He was selected by New Orleans in the fourth round of the 2007 draft and made two Pro Bowls with the Saints before joining the Bears in free agency.

Chicago announced the move on Tuesday.

The release of Bushrod is part of a continuing overhaul for the Bears under coach John Fox and general manager Ryan Pace. Running back Matt Forte announced Friday that the team told him it would not offer him another contract after it went 6-10 last season and finished last in the NFC North.

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