Chicago Bears release Marcus Davenport at his request; he then retires

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 28: Marcus Davenport #52 of the Chicago Bears arrives prior to the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Soldier Field on September 28, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Defensive end Marcus Davenport made his Chicago Bears debut yesterday after being elevated from the practice squad, and today he requested to be released. The Bears granted the wish, and with the release official, Davenport intends to retire, per a report from Ian Rapoport.

Against the Jets, the 30-year-old Davenport logged 12 snaps on defense, making a tackle, and he played 1 snap on special teams.

The Bears signed him in August and brought him along slowly to ensure he had his conditioning right after battling injuries over the previous few years. He was among their final roster cuts and signed to the practice squad before the season.

Davenport also played for the New Orleans Saints, the Minnesota Vikings, and the Detroit Lions.

The Bears now have an opening on their 16-man practice squad, and one opening on their 53-man roster after placing Braxton Jones on injured reserve last week.

The Bears have three potential options for the active roster this week: defensive end Shemar Turner, linebacker Noah Sewell, and defensive back Kyler Gordon are all eligible to come off the PUP list. All three players participated fully in practice last Friday.