Bears will release RB Chester Taylor

The Chicago Bears have informed running back Chester Taylor he will be released as the team needs to make five cuts to get down to 80 before Tuesday’s deadline.

By releasing Taylor now instead of waiting until Saturday, it will afford the veteran an opportunity to find a new job. One thing he has going for him is he has a track record for being a durable performer.

The Bears signed Taylor to a $12.5 million, four-year contract last season. He earned $7 million in 2010 when he averaged 2.38 yards per carry. The club effectively replaced him when Marion Barber was signed.

The Bears are now minus Taylor and tight end Brandon Manmaleuna, who was also signed to a big contract a year ago. Between the two of them, they earned $13.105 million in 2010.

Baltimore and Arizona could be potential landing spots for Taylor. He played previously for the Ravens.

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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune