Former Tennessee QB Nathan Peterman released by Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears have been an organization that, through two weeks, has been tough to figure out. After their latest move, the head scratching continues. Former Tennessee QB Nathan Peterman was reportedly released by the team on Wednesday per ESPN's Field Yates. Although the team hasn't formally announced it yet, Peterman's profile is gone from […]
The Chicago Bears have been an organization that, through two weeks, has been tough to figure out. After their latest move, the head scratching continues.
Former Tennessee QB Nathan Peterman was reportedly released by the team on Wednesday per ESPN's Field Yates. Although the team hasn't formally announced it yet, Peterman's profile is gone from the Bears' website as of Wednesday evening. He was the backup to starter Justin Fields.
Peterman's release is a bit of a surprise, given that the Bears have only undrafted free agent rookie QB Tyson Bagent from Shepherd University on the active roster – who the team apparently thinks very highly of – in addition to Fields. The Bears could still choose to sign Peterman to the practice squad and keep him in town, which would keep his services while freeing up a 53-man roster spot.
Peterman hasn't had a pro career to write home about. In 13 games, Peterman has completed only 53.1% of his passes for 712 yards with 4 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.
Peterman spent his first three collegiate years in Knoxville, where he appeared in 9 games. After Josh Dobbs secured the starting role, Peterman transferred to Pittsburgh, where he started all 13 games in both 2015 and 2016. He led the Panthers to a 43-42 upset at eventual national champion Clemson in his final season.
Now, he may have to wait and see what opportunities are available to continue his playing career.
UPDATE (Thursday, September 21, 9:30 am): Peterman has reportedly been re-signed by the Bears to their active roster per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
There was no corresponding roster addition with his release announced by the team, so perhaps they didn't make a move they expected to make and brought Peterman back.
Regardless of why it happened, it appears a quick reunion is on.
Update #2 (Thursday, September 21, 2:00 pm): Peterman's release was related to an attempt to acquire another offensive lineman after OT Braxton Jones was placed on injured reserve, per ESPN Bears reporter Courtney Cronin.
Featured image via Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports