Bears GM Ryan Poles tells emotional story of how he told Larry Ogunjobi that Chicago wasn't signing him because of failed physical
Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles spoke candidly on Monday at the NFL owners meetings in Florida about the franchise's decision to not sign defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi earlier this offseason after a failed physical. The Bears originally agreed to sign Ogunjobi to a three-year deal worth $40.5 million. The deal was set to be […]
Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles spoke candidly on Monday at the NFL owners meetings in Florida about the franchise's decision to not sign defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi earlier this offseason after a failed physical.
The Bears originally agreed to sign Ogunjobi to a three-year deal worth $40.5 million. The deal was set to be the signature free agent signing of Poles' first offseason, which is essentially a rebuilding offseason for Chicago.
Ogunjobi, who is recovering from a foot injury, unfortunately failed his final physical. That led to the Bears opting to not go through with the deal.
Poles confirmed on Monday that the failed physical had to do with Ogunjobi's previous foot injury.
"It wasn't what it should have been if that makes sense," said Poles.
Poles called the situation with Ogunjobi "emotionally draining". Then he said he told Ogunjobi that the team wouldn't be signing him while the two sat in the backseat of a car.
"It tore me to pieces," said Poles.
That's the tough part of being a general manager that doesn't get publicized often. There's no easy way to give a player that type of heartbreaking news.
But that's why Poles gets a nice salary. It's something that comes with the territory.
By the way, Chicago is still open to signing Ogunjobi — presumably to a much cheaper deal — but that hasn't come to fruition so far.
Featured image via Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
