When the Chicago Bears broke out the wallet at the start of free agency and dropped big coin to sign Julius Peppers it was evident to all that Adewale Ogunleye, a starter for the last six seasons, would not be returning.

Now, it’s clear that that the starter on the other side of the defensive line will not be back. The Bears are actively shopping nine-year veteran Alex Brown and if they cannot find a taker, he will likely be released.

This comes on the heels of the announcement by coach Lovie Smith on Wednesday at the owners meeting in Orlando, Fla., that Israel Idonije will move outside from tackle to end. That made the group too crowded as the Bears covet restricted free agent Mark Anderson, who is expected to have a bigger role in 2010. Brown has a base salary of $5 million this season and is due to make $5.5 million in 2011. Whether or not the Bears can find a taker for him remains to be seen. He’s a consistent two-way end who has been durable and is a strong presence in the locker room. Former Bears defensive coordinator Ron Rivera used to say that he could judge how practice was going to go on a daily basis with how Brown was reacting.

Brown made six sacks last season and has 29