Bears Waive Harris, Hillenmeyer

By Chuck Sudo in News on Feb 28, 2011 7:40PM

The Bears shook up their roster today, releasing defensive tackle Tommie Harris, linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer and offensive tackle Kevin Shaffer. General Manager Jerry Angelo promised roster moves last week, and he delivered.

Harris, who was the Bears' first-round draft choice in 2004, became the first Bears defensive tackle to be named to three straight Pro Bowls. But injuries and attitude limited Harris's productivity after the Bears 2006 Super Bowl appearance. Although he had a late-season surge last season, Harris only had 18 tackles all season. He was due a $2.4 million roster bonus in June. More important, Harris's release indicates the Bears have faith in young linemen Israel Idonije and Matt Toeaina, who blossomed on the D-line with the signing and impact of Julius Peppers. Toeaina recently signed a three-year extension and the Bears are said to be finalizing a three-year deal with Anthony Adams

Hillenmeyer proved to be a valuable member of the Bears over his eight seasons with the team. But a concussion he suffered against the Arizona Cardinals in the preseason kept him on the sidelines for the duration of the 2010 regular season. Hillenmeyer was also the Bears' alternate players union representative.